In his ninth season, Ryan set the franchise single-season records in passing yards and touchdowns as well as completion percentage (69.9), passer rating (117.1), and passes of 25-plus yards (42).
He also set a franchise single-game record with 503 passing yards in a 48-33 victory over the Carolina Panthers. Ryan completed 373 of 534 passes through 16 games while throwing just seven interceptions.
He established an NFL first, according to Elias Sports Bureau, by completing touchdown passes to 13 targets during the regular season. Ryan completed passes to 15 receivers overall.
During a four-game winning streak to end the season, Ryan threw 11 touchdowns with no interceptions. He entered the season intent on cutting down turnovers after 21 miscues in 2015 (16 interceptions, five lost fumbles).
Ryan attributed his success to growth in Year 2 of Shanahan’s offensive scheme, as the Falcons boasted the league’s top-scoring offense at 33.8 points per game.
The Falcons also helped build a stronger foundation around Ryan with the signing of four-time Pro Bowl center Mack along with the additions of wide receivers Mohamed Sanu and Taylor Gabriel and rookie tight end Austin Hooper.
He already had a solid base with All-Pro wide receiver Julio Jones and the running back tandem of Devonta Freeman and Tevin Coleman.