Steve Bartkowski knows a little about the pressures of being the first quarterback drafted, and hence, the anointed savior of a franchise.

The overall No. 1 pick in 1975 out of Cal, Bartkowski was a Falcons starter from his first season in town. He paid the requisite dues — the Falcons won just eight games in his first two seasons. By the time he was done at the close of '85, he held every significant Falcons passing record.

He offers a few tips to the modern Falcon messiah behind center, Matt Ryan.

On handling the expectations and the critics:

"Stay level and don't forget the game is fun. Remember, you never are as good as they say you are, and conversely, you're never as bad as they say you are. Focus on what you can do to be the best you can be and then set about to do it.

"Simply tune out both fans and critics. And if at any time you are tempted to listen, remember this: The ones talking, or writing, usually have little clue as to what it takes for you to do your job."

On relating to his new professional teammates:

"Comport yourself like a 'long-shot, free-agent reach' among the boys. Humility will always win friends, and you can do nothing at that position without friends."

On the biggest adjustment to an NFL training camp:

"The personnel in attendance will be the biggest difference between college and pro training camps. There will be approximately 90 guys there this weekend who can really play, a collection of college all-stars, if you will."

On the most important aspect of the life in the pros to grasp immediately:

"Football always has been and will always be the ultimate team game. In the grand scheme, your part, while important, is not any more or less integral than the collective efforts of your teammates. Find out early on what motivates those you are dependent upon and do everything in your power to help them achieve their goals. That, in turn, allows you to achieve yours. It's a beautiful thing."

And one other thing:

"Take most of that guaranteed bonus money and put it in a safe place where it will grow substantially throughout your career. Don't touch it, no matter how tempting it might be.

"Remember, even if you play for 10-plus years — which we all hope is the minimum — there's a whole bunch of life left when you exit the game."

— Steve Hummer