ATLANTA — Matt Ryan has signed a six-year, $72-million contract with the Atlanta Falcons.

Ryan, the No. 3 overall pick in last month's NFL draft, is guaranteed $34.75 million in the deal signed Tuesday. Falcons spokesman Reggie Roberts confirms the signing and says the team has scheduled a news conference for tonight.

Ryan's guaranteed money is $4.75 million more than received by Jake Long, the No. 1 overall pick who also is represented by agent Tom Condon.

Ryan worked behind quarterbacks Chris Redman and Joey Harrington at his first minicamp with the team this month, but it wouldn't be a surprise if the former Boston College star earns the starting job in 2008.

Ryan completed 807 of 1,347 attempts for 9,313 yards and 56 touchdowns in his career at Boston College. His career completions and attempts set school records.

The 2008 Atlantic Coast Conference Player of the Year won 76.5 percent of his 34 starts and was a perfect 3-0 in bowl games.