Quarterback Matt Ryan
Q: How was your first day of practice?
A: “Fun. It was a fun first day. It’s nice to have it under your belt at this point. I’m just excited to go in, watch the tape and get out this afternoon to do it again.”
Q: Did you have any jitters at all?
A: “I think everybody is anxious when it’s their first practice. I was nervous. It’s just nice to have that over so I can settle in. I’m just kind of in the flow now.”
Q: You were taking a couple seconds before each snap. Was that just to take it all in since everyone is so much faster and smarter?
A: “Yeah, I’m just trying to understand the offense too. I’m doing my best when I’m out there. I’m just trying to survey it and make sure I get a good look at everything. I’m ready to go when I do snap the ball.”
Q: Was it how you dreamed it up? Is this what you anticipated for your first day?
A: “I’ll tell you what, when you dream about professional football, you don’t dream about practicing. You dream about playing in the game. So I never really dreamt about my first professional practice. It went very well.”
Q: You always start at the bottom and work your way up in high school and college. How do you feel about doing for the third time in your career?
A: “It’s part of the process. It’s kind of like being a freshman. Being a rookie is like being a freshman in college. You just have to take your lumps, try to learn from it and try to earn the respect of your teammates. That’s what I’ve been trying to do.”
Q: What did you think about the fan turnout?
A: “Great turnout from the Falcons fans. It’s awesome to have their support. It was nice to finally meet them face-to-face. I signed some autographs afterwards. I really enjoyed it. I want to thank them for coming out. Hopefully, we’ll have a good turnout the rest of the weekend.”
Q: What do you think about the fans who bought No. 2 jerseys?
A: “It’s pretty cool to see people wearing your jersey; I’m not going to lie to you. It’s nice. I appreciate their support. Hopefully, I can play well and get some more No. 2 jerseys in the stands.”
Q: Michael Jenkins wears No. 12. Is that why you chose No. 2?
A: “Yeah, Mike had No. 12 and I wore No. 12 in college. So I went back to No. 2, which I wore in high school. I’m happy about it.”
MORE FROM MINI CAMP:
- NOTEBOOK: Ryan glad first practice in the books
- QUOTABLE: Quarterback Matt Ryan
- J. MIKE'S MISSIVES: Baker Has Family Support
- PHOTOS: Snapshots from Mini Camp
- AUDIO: Tackle Sam Baker
- VIDEO: Head Coach Mike Smith | David Baker | Matt Ryan | Michael Turner | Michael Boley
