Fansided

Ranking starting quarterbacks for each NFL team

By Nathaniel Reeves

Jan 3, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) throws a pass during the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at Lambeau Field. Minnesota won 20-13. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2016; Green Bay, WI, USA; Green Bay Packers quarterback Aaron Rodgers (12) throws a pass during the fourth quarter against the Minnesota Vikings at Lambeau Field. Minnesota won 20-13. Mandatory Credit: Jeff Hanisch-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 3, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) passes the football against the New Orleans Saints during the second quarter at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2016; Atlanta, GA, USA; Atlanta Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan (2) passes the football against the New Orleans Saints during the second quarter at the Georgia Dome. Mandatory Credit: Dale Zanine-USA TODAY Sports /

19. Matt Ryan, Atlanta Falcons

Coming off of a disappointing season, Ryan will have to play a little better in 2016 or face some questions about his future in Atlanta.

Ryan was solid once again in 2015, throwing for 4,591 yards and 21 touchdowns, helping the Falcons improve to 8-8 under first-year head coach Dan Quinn. However, Ryan’s 2.6 percent interception rate matched his highest mark since 2009, and his 89.0 quarterback rating was one of the worst of his career.

Like Kansas City, Atlanta will have to ponder if Ryan is still a quarterback that can lead a team on a deep postseason run. Ryan is far from a liability, but the Falcons may need him to return to his 2012 level of play to reach a Super Bowl. At 30 years old, that’s going to be a challenge for Ryan, and the Falcons will want to see some improvement before Ryan’s contract is up three years from now.

The development of third-year running back Devonta Freeman and new addition Mohamed Sanu alongside Julio Jones should help Ryan return to improve some next season. While many believe the Falcons have reached their ceiling under Ryan, it’s going to be difficult for Atlanta to find an upgrade for the next three or four years.

Next: 18. Tyrod Taylor, Buffalo Bills

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