Falcons coach Dan Quinn is concerned about making sure that quarterback Matt Ryan and new offensive coordinator Steve Sarkisian click immediately.
It’s been documented that Ryan and former offensive coordinator Kyle Shanahan weren’t singing from the same hymnbook in 2015. They quickly ironed out their issues and Ryan earned his first most valuable player award while guiding the Falcons to Super Bowl LI last season.
Shanahan, who’s play-calling in Super Bowl LI has been lambasted nationally, was named the head coach in San Francisco after the 34-28 overtime loss.
“You have to be intentional about it and make sure that they spend enough time together,” Quinn said when speaking to reporters at the owners’ meeting in Arizona on Wednesday.
Ryan, who’s headed into his 10th season, can make some demands.
The Falcons will ask him if there are some things than need to be changed, whether if it’s the language of a call, a formation, how they make calls or if motion is needed or unnecessary.
“Those conversations between Sark and Matt have to be authentic,” Quinn said. “They have to be real. That’s why the offseason is an important time for the quarterback and the play-caller to make sure that their connection is so strong.”
Sarkisian will be Ryan’s fourth offensive coordinator. Ryan’s reached the playoffs with each of the previous three – Mike Mularkey, Dirk Koetter and Kyle Shanahan. All three have gone on to become head coaches.
“Matt is such a good guy and decent guy to communication with,” Quinn said. “That helps the process a lot.”
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