Overview

Matthew Thomas Ryan, nicknamed “Matty Ice,” is a former American professional football quarterback. He played in the National Football League (NFL) for 15 seasons, primarily with the Atlanta Falcons. Ryan holds the Falcons franchise records for passing yards, passing touchdowns, attempts, completions, passer rating, and wins. He played college football for the Boston College Eagles and was drafted by the Falcons third overall in the 2008 NFL Draft. Ryan signed a six-year, $72 million contract with the Falcons which contained $34.75 million in guaranteed money and also signed endorsement deals with Nike and AirTran. He was named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2008. In 2016, Ryan was named the NFL Most Valuable Player (MVP) and led the Falcons to an appearance in Super Bowl LI. He retired from the NFL on April 22, 2024, after signing a one-day contract with the Atlanta Falcons.

Atlanta Falcons

Former Quarterback

What Is Matt Ryan’s Net Worth?

As of April 7, 2025, Matt Ryan, the celebrated American football quarterback, boasts a net worth of approximately $70 million. A significant portion of this wealth stems from his lucrative NFL career, particularly his time with the Atlanta Falcons. Beyond his on-field earnings, Ryan has also supplemented his income through various endorsement deals and strategic real estate investments. His financial trajectory reflects not only his athletic prowess but also his savvy business acumen.

Matt Ryan’s NFL Career and Earnings

Matt Ryan’s journey to becoming a top-earning NFL player began when the Atlanta Falcons drafted him third overall in 2008. Immediately upon entering the league, Ryan secured a six-year contract valued at $72 million. This initial contract included $34.75 million in guaranteed funds, positioning him as the fourth-highest-paid quarterback in the NFL right from the start of his professional career. The magnitude of this rookie contract sparked considerable debate about the escalating value of rookie contracts within the NFL.

In 2015, Ryan’s financial standing further solidified when he signed a contract extension exceeding $100 million. This extension not only recognized his performance on the field but also secured his place as a cornerstone player for the Falcons. By 2018, Ryan achieved a historic milestone, becoming the first NFL quarterback to earn $30 million per year. This landmark achievement came with a five-year, $150-million contract extension with the Atlanta Falcons. Although Aaron Rodgers later surpassed this figure with an even more lucrative deal, Ryan’s contract marked a pivotal moment in NFL quarterback salaries.

Between June 2017 and June 2018, Matt Ryan’s earnings from salary and endorsements totaled an impressive $67 million. This figure underscores his marketability and the value that brands place on associating with his image. His ability to secure substantial endorsement deals alongside his playing salary has significantly contributed to his overall net worth.

Matt Ryan’s Real Estate Investments

Matt Ryan’s real estate portfolio, while not as widely publicized as his playing contracts, reflects strategic investment choices within the Atlanta area. In 2017, it was reported that Ryan and his wife, Sarah, had made several notable real estate transactions. They owned a home within Buckhead’s Ritz Carlton Residences, a high-end residential complex known for its luxury amenities and prime location.

In 2015, the Ryans acquired a 6.3-acre parcel of land in the Tuxedo Park neighborhood near Buckhead, Atlanta. Tuxedo Park is one of Atlanta’s most exclusive residential areas, known for its large estates and affluent residents. The Ryans intended to construct a large estate home on this property, but the plans never materialized. In 2017, they sold their penthouse condo at the Ritz for $3.7 million and offloaded the 6.3-acre property for $4.75 million. These transactions essentially resulted in them breaking even, suggesting that these real estate moves were more about lifestyle adjustments than pure investment plays.

Reportedly, the Ryans sold these properties to purchase a new home in Tuxedo Park for $4.5 million. This purchase indicates a preference for a specific neighborhood and a willingness to invest in a property that better suited their needs. While the specific address of this home is not publicly available, the price point and location suggest a substantial and well-appointed residence.

Early Life and Influences

Matthew Thomas Ryan was born on May 17, 1985, in Exton, Pennsylvania. He grew up in a Roman Catholic household with three siblings. His family background includes a strong connection to football, with his uncle having played at Boston College and his cousin being drafted by the San Francisco 49ers after playing at Notre Dame. This familial influence likely played a role in shaping Ryan’s early interest and dedication to the sport.

Ryan attended high school in Philadelphia, where he quickly became a key player on the school’s football team. During his senior year, he threw for over 2,000 yards and scored 19 touchdowns, showcasing his potential as a quarterback. He also participated in basketball and baseball, captaining all three teams, demonstrating his leadership abilities and athletic versatility. Despite his accomplishments, Ryan received moderate attention from universities, ultimately choosing to enroll at Boston College due to its proximity to home, strong football program, and emphasis on academics.

During his freshman year at Boston College, Ryan was redshirted but earned a spot on the scout team by 2004. He demonstrated a strong commitment to his studies, earning the Freshman Male Scholar-Athlete award. In 2005, he was named the second-string quarterback and eventually became the starter, passing for 1,514 yards in his next ten games. The following season, he led the team with 2,942 yards, 15 touchdowns, and 10 interceptions. In 2007, Ryan prepared for the NFL draft by launching a website showcasing his statistics, biographical information, and highlights. He concluded the season with 4,507 passing yards, 31 touchdowns, and 19 interceptions. His numerous accolades included the ACC Offensive Player of the Year award, the ACC Player of the Year award, the Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award, the Manning Award, and the Eagle of the Year award. He was also selected for the 2008 Senior Bowl and named to the All-ACC team, further solidifying his status as a top NFL prospect.

Key Career Milestones

Matt Ryan’s career is marked by several significant milestones that have contributed to his financial success and overall net worth. In 2008, his very first pass in an NFL game resulted in a 62-yard touchdown, a rare feat for a rookie quarterback. He went on to throw for more than 3,000 passing yards in his rookie season, joining Peyton Manning as one of the few quarterbacks to achieve this milestone. He finished the season with 3,440 passing yards and 17 touchdowns, earning him the AP NFL Rookie of the Year award.

In 2011, Ryan was invited to play in the Pro Bowl for the first time in his career, recognizing his performance and impact on the field. In 2012, he underwent surgery to repair the AC joint on his non-throwing shoulder, demonstrating his commitment to maintaining his physical condition and extending his career. After signing a contract extension with the Falcons, he became the franchise leader in passing yards, solidifying his legacy with the team. In 2016, Ryan led the Falcons to Super Bowl LI against the Patriots, although they ultimately lost the game in overtime despite holding a 25-point lead. This Super Bowl appearance, despite the loss, significantly enhanced his reputation and marketability.

Throughout his career, Ryan’s contract was extended and restructured several times, reflecting his consistent performance and value to the Falcons. These contract adjustments not only increased his earnings but also provided him with financial security and flexibility. His ability to consistently perform at a high level and maintain his marketability has been instrumental in accumulating his $70 million net worth.

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