"Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan, who was married over the offseason, is due a nice wedding present from the Falcons in the form of a $11.25 million bonus.

Ryan was one of the first players to arrive at the team facilities Tuesday.

"It feels good to be back," Ryan said.

In May 2008, Ryan signed a six-year, $72 million contract that included $34.75 million in guarantees. He has guided the Falcons to three consecutive winning seasons and two trips to the playoffs.

"I was very excited to get up here," Ryan said. "We put in a lot of hard work this offseason as players. I know that the coaches put in a lot of hard work this offseason as well."

Also, Ryan wanted to chat with Bob Bratkowski, the team's new quarterback coach. The two met before the lockout, but will start working together in earnest Thursday."