Matt Ryan Holds Second Annual Players-Only Passing Camp in Florida

“Brotherhood.”

What began as a bit of a cheesy rallying cry became the steadfast maxim by which the Atlanta Falcons would operate as they eviscerated opponents on their way to Super Bowl LI. A word Dan Quinn lifted from the team’s training sessions with Navy SEALs prior to the 2016 season, Atlanta’s brotherhood became more than a mere theme, it became the lifeblood of a Falcons unit that defied expectations.

Part of that brotherhood was forged last preseason, before Quinn ever brought in a team of military elites to train with the Falcons squad.

It started back in March with Matt Ryan organizing and hosting his first players-only passing camp in Florida. The newly-minted MVP, firmly embracing his leadership role, is doing it again this season.

Last year, 27 players joined Matt Ryan in South Florida. On Monday, Ryan told 680 The Fan that the entire Falcons roster would report this week. It appears the Brotherhood has grown even tighter in the wake of Atlanta’s historic Super Bowl collapse.

During local radio spot, Matt Ryan says entire Falcons team is meeting for workouts in South Florida this week, b4 formal workouts in ATL. pic.twitter.com/kathLLKvEK — Jim Trotter (@JimTrotter_NFL) April 10, 2017

Spring Break, Brotherhood-style will be missing one of its most important pieces, however, as superstar wide receiver/post-humanoid-weapon-with-legs Julio Jones recovers from offseason foot surgery. He’s the engine that makes the whole machine go, so rest up, Julio.

You cannot discount or understate the value of unity, dedication, teamwork, and yes, brotherhood. The 2016 Falcons were a testament to that. It was a spring slogan-turned postseason paragon for the Atlanta Falcons. Let’s hope Matt Ryan and Co. continue to strengthen that bond in this week’s camp.