Atlanta Falcons QB Matt Ryan has signed on with agents Alan Zucker and Mark Steinberg of Excel Sports Management for his marketing work and off-the-field endeavors, according to SBJ’s Liz Mullen.
Ryan has decided to join on with Zucker and Excel Sports Management, the marketing agent to the Manning brothers and recently former Oregon QB Marcus Mariota, after leaving CAA Sports. Although leaving CAA for his marketing work, CAA’s Tom Condon will continue to represent him on the field. Ryan, the No. 3 pick in the 2008 NFL Draft and a three-time Pro Bowler, is currently endorsed by Bose and Nike and has appeared in a Gillette commercial.
“We are currently looking at renewals of those two deals, as well as to explore other opportunities with high-level corporations that have a connection to the Atlanta area or a connection to the NFL that want to market a professional athlete who carries himself well, supports his city and supports his team,” Zucker said.
Ryan, the #10 highest-paid athlete in 2014 according to Forbes, was making $1.8 million from endorsements alone last year. His five-year, $103.75 million contract signed in 2013 included a $28 million signing bonus and a $12 million option bonus. His endorsement money comes from appearances, memorabilia, and sponsors Nike, Comcast and Liquid Nutrition.