Matt Ryan landing spots: 3 top destinations for out-of-favor QB in 2023

Matt Ryan went on a rollercoaster ride throughout the 2022 NFL season. He previously spent his entire career with the Atlanta Falcons before being traded to the Indianapolis Colts. He had one of his worst statistical seasons ever while being benched midseason. He received another shot at the starting job but failed to secure it long-term.

After his rocky 2022 campaign and now 37 years old, Matt Ryan is expected to be released by the Colts during the 2023 NFL offseason. His ideal landing spot would be with a team looking for short-term veteran stability or as a bridge quarterback to future prospects, such as a rookie from the 2023 NFL Draft. Here are three destinations that make sense.

#1 - Washington Commanders

Sam Howell

The Washington Commanders have officially moved on from Carson Wentz and Taylor Heinicke during the 2023 NFL offseason. Sam Howell is the only remaining quarterback on their active roster, but it's unclear if they believe in him as their future franchise quarterback.

This is where Matt Ryan could come in. From day one, he could compete with Howell to serve as their starter in Week 1 of the 2023 NFL season. Even if he doesn't earn the starting job, he serves as a safety net if Howell severely struggles.

#2 - Los Angeles Rams

Matthew Stafford

Matthew Stafford is recovering from a serious neck and spinal cord injury, which could potentially jeopardize his future in the NFL. Even if he's healthy enough to play football in 2023, which is unclear, he's also been involved in trade rumors during the offseason. The Los Angeles Rams may seek a new quarterback for the 2023 NFL season.

Their options will likely be limited, especially considering they don't own a first-round pick in the upcoming 223 NFL Draft. Baker Mayfield served as Stafford's replacement last year, but he recently signed with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in free agency. The Rams' options are thinning out, making Matt Ryan a legitimate short-term solution for them.

#3 - Miami Dolphins

Tua Tagovailoa

Tua Tagovailoa has struggled to stay healthy, suffering multiple serious concussions during the 2022 NFL season. This threatens his availability, which is a significant issue for the Miami Dolphins as they aim to be Super Bowl contenders. Matt Ryan could serve as a safety blanket if Tagovailoa suffers another injury.

Having a legitimate backup can help the Dolphins remain in contention if Tagovailoa is forced to miss games during the 2023 NFL season. They used this approach last season when they signed Teddy Bridgewater as one of the best overall backup quarterbacks in the NFL. If Matt Ryan is satisfied with being a backup to open the 2023 season, Miami makes a ton of sense.