Undrafted Tackle Ryan Schraeder Named Atlanta Falcons' Best Preseason Success Story in Franchise History

ESPN has named right tackle Ryan Schraeder the Atlanta Falcons' most exceptional preseason riser ever, recognizing his transformation from undrafted prospect to franchise cornerstone. The Division II alumnus signed as an undrafted free agent in 2013 and earned a starting role through exceptional training camp and preseason performance, ultimately becoming a critical offensive lineman during the peak years of the Falcons' Matt Ryan era.

From Division II to Pro Recognition

Schraeder, standing 6-foot-7 and weighing 300 pounds, arrived at the Falcons' facility with minimal fanfare following his college career at Valdosta State. The organization's initial expectations remained modest, but his dominant showing during the August evaluation period forced coaching staff to place him on the active roster as a rookie. By his second season in the league, he had secured the full-time starting position at right tackle, where he would remain a fixture in Atlanta's lineup for six consecutive seasons.

The career trajectory that followed vindicated the team's decision to invest in the undrafted prospect. Schraeder started 73 games for the Falcons and was named a first-team All-Pro selection, standing alongside the league's elite at his position. He anchored the offensive line during quarterback Matt Ryan's most productive stretch as a professional, providing the protection necessary for Atlanta's high-octane passing attack.

The Super Bowl Legacy

Schraeder's most prominent moment came during Super Bowl LI against the New England Patriots, where the Falcons mounted a commanding 28-3 lead over three quarters. The Falcons' inability to sustain their offensive momentum in the final period has been extensively chronicled, yet one overlooked contributing factor was Schraeder's injury during the game itself. A torn ankle ligament significantly compromised the team's ability to execute their running game effectively in crucial moments, undermining one of their primary offensive weapons as the game progressed toward its infamous conclusion.

Despite never achieving Pro Bowl recognition, Schraeder remains an underrated figure in Falcons history whose exceptional preseason performance eight years earlier established the foundation for one of the franchise's most successful periods.