Contract for Matt Ryan on hold for time being

A new contract for Matt Ryan is on the “back burner” for the time being as the Atlanta Falcons gear up for the NFL draft.

D. Orlando Ledbetter of the Atlanta Journal-Constitution reports that a new deal for Ryan, who has helped the team to the postseason in four of his five seasons, is a priority and something the Falcons have worked toward this offseason as they reduce salary cap figures in order to create a deal for the quartertback.

But the focus right now is on the draft and the Falcons have proven to be bold under general manager Thomas Dimitroff.

“The situation is, as we’ve mentioned, both parties, we’re in a very comfortable situation,” Dimitroff said, according to Ledbetter. “We are focused on the draft again. After the draft we’ll continue to discuss (Ryan’s contract) and I’m sure both parties, Matt and the Falcons are feeling good about making sure that this gets done at the right time.

“There is no time frame on it right now and I don’t want to keep you hanging on it, but I feel confident that things are going to be taken care of when the time is proper.”

Follow me on Twitter: @BradBiggs

Brad Biggs covers the Bears for the Chicago Tribune

Upcoming Games