FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. – Falcons general manager Thomas Dimitroff said the team's No. 1 priority this offseason is getting quarterback Matt Ryan a new contract.
Ryan, the NFL's MVP in the 2016 season, is entering the final season of a five-year deal worth a reported $103.75 million.
"That's one that interestingly enough will help create flexibility and what we're doing moving forward with a number of moves we may be making," Dimitroff said during his season-ending press conference Thursday. "Yes, Matt's focus will be the No. 1 focus."
In 10 seasons with the Falcons, Ryan has thrown for 41,796 yards and 260 touchdowns. Ryan became the fastest player in NFL history to reach 40,000 passing yards.
When asked about what the longevity of Ryan's career looks like, Dimitroff quickly complimented the way Ryan takes care of his body and prepares as a reason to believe he could play for a long time.
"I think he's a guy that takes care of his body both on and off the field properly," Dimitroff said. "He does a lot of work on the field. He's good about his nutrition and approach. He understands by learning from some of these guys who have played longer. We're very fortunate with that, and of course we're fortunate the way the rules are set up in the league that are going to preserve our quarterbacks hopefully. Again, we want him to be a part of this organization for a long time coming."
Ryan just finished his 10th season with the Falcons and has played in 158 games.
