Matt Ryan

Positional Rankings:
Offense: QB RB FB WR TE OT OG C
Defense: DT NT DE Hybrid DE/OLB OLB ILB FS SS CB
Special Teams: K P RS LS

Position: Quarterback

School: Boston College

Status: Senior

Height: 6-4

Weight: 225

40-Yard Dash: 4.95 (EST)

It seems the jury is split somewhat when it comes to Matt Ryan. Some view him as a high first-round pick while others think he could slide down into the later part of the round. Based on his senior season at Boston College, however, I think I fall somewhere between the two. Ryan has the size, arm strength, intelligence, poise, and leadership skills needed to develop into a solid NFL starter, but I'm not sure he'll ever be a franchise-type QB.

He has good zip on his passes and improved his accuracy tremendously as a senior, but still struggles at time with his throws. He seems to read defenses well and make the correct pre-snap adjustments. And he isn't afraid to take command in the huddle.

One drawback that is often pointed out when it comes to Ryan is he doesn't have much in the speed department. He does, however, have enough athletic ability to move around well in the pocket and scramble for the occasional first down. He could stand to shorten his release somewhat though. He tends to wind up a little too much, which gives defensive backs an extra split second to react to the play. In the NFL, that can be the difference between a touchdown and an interception.

His footwork is also inconsistent at times, which probably leads to his occasional bouts of wildness. But he improved in that area as well as the 2007 season progressed.