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Pros: One of the most prolific quarterbacks in Boston College history – Ryan set school records by passing for 4,500 yards and 31 touchdowns this past season, outdoing Doug Flutie’s Heisman Trophy season. He displayed his toughness by playing through an ankle and foot injury as a junior, which hampered him throughout much of the season and significantly limited his practice time. Not only did he continue to play, but the BC signal caller was highly productive and won ball games. In addition, Ryan displayed leadership abilities as a field general all through his career. He stands tall in the pocket with a pro quarterback’s size and frame, possessing poise under pressure and can throw an NFL fastball. Ryan also knows when to take something off and use touch. The future first round pick can also can deliver the ball while on the move and is much more mobile than many believe. A two-time captain selection, Ryan has earned the respect of teammates, opponents and coaches with his hard work – headman Jeff Jagodzinski raves about his film study. He is known as a fierce competitor.

Cons: While he showed his toughness last season playing through injury (high ankle sprain and broken foot), the fact he had two serious injuries makes one wonder what the long-term diagnosis is on Ryan’s durability at the next level. He will put a little too much underneath his deep ball and at times his passes can sail, missing open receivers. He will need to tame that in the pros, as such throws will lead to interceptions.

Factoid: Did you know Matt earned the nickname “Matty Ice” amongst his teammates for his cool, calm demeanor?

X-Factor: While the Eagles have a very talented roster, they lack a plethora of playmakers at wide receiver. Compared to the weapons most of the other day one quarterback prospects had at their disposal, Ryan had to shoulder more of the responsibility in the Boston College passing game. Imagine the numbers he could have put up with someone like Keenan Burton of Kentucky or Michigan’s Mario Manningham at his disposal? This of course could be a major benefit, inasmuch as Ryan has already learned to fit the ball in smaller spaces, even superstar receivers do not get much separation in the NFL.

Overall: He has the physical abilities as well as the leadership intangibles you look for in a pro quarterback. A winning resume, commitment to excellence, and a smart decision maker, Ryan may have the most complete all-around game of any quarterback in the draft. He did a tremendous job of handling the media in helping maximize National exposure for Boston College.

Medical Examiner:

• 10/12/06—Broke 5^th Metatarsal in left foot, missed one game. Ryan had surgery on 01/05/07.

Highlights of Accomplishments:

• 2006 & 2007 All-ACC First Team

• 2006 & 2007 ACC Offensive Player of the Year

• Won 2007 Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award

• Led the ACC in total offense add in passing yards

Personal: Uncle was also a quarterback at Boston College.

High School: Played small forward on basketball team, and was a pitcher, as well as a shortstop on the baseball team.

Major: Communications

Quote of Note: ''He does everything you want. He's accurate, has a good release and does a nice job of maneuvering in the pocket. He's got poise, and he makes plays in the clutch. That's what you're looking for in a quarterback.''

--Chicago Bears General Manager Jerry Angelo On Matt Ryan

Murphy’s View: A classic, drop-back passer who has very good physical tools and the necessary toughness/intangibles to become a starter at the next level. He's a better athlete than he is given credit for and can move around the pocket with enough presence to avoid pass rushers, while putting good zip on most of his throws. Ryan catapulted into the number one quarterback position with a strong senior season, including six wins against ranked opponents.

Mogollon’s View: In addition to the intangibles, Ryan can make all the necessary throws and is mobile enough to avoid the rush. This season, Ryan displayed the ability to grasp a new offense, with new verbiage rather seamlessly judging by his and the team’s immediate success. Studying an NFL offense (Green Bay), he has also developed an understanding for the smaller “windows” to fit the ball in, which is necessary at the next level. Ryan will not smack you in the face with his potential the way JaMarcus Russell did last season, but make no mistake he is every bit the prospect, a potential franchise quarterback, who has an uncanny knack for rising to the occasion. As for the interception totals, have no fear—he knew at BC the offense needed him to take risks. The best compliment one can give a quarterback is to call him a winner, which Ryan is with a capitol W.