Have the Atlanta Falcons done enough to feel confident at quarterback? This is a question I’ve been hearing for a while, and it’s worth investigating more. Matt Ryan will not play for the Atlanta Falcons for the first time since 2008. During the offseason, the former Falcon was dealt to the Indianapolis Colts, as the Falcons attempt to move on from their past. Isn’t it almost as though the Falcons are resetting the clock?
A brief rundown on Mariota
Marcus Mariota signed with the Atlanta Falcons in March 2022, making it his third team since being drafted second overall in the first round of the 2015 NFL Draft. He was a starter with the Titans, but inconsistent play and injuries made him ride the bench for Ryan Tannehill to take his spot. He signed with the Las Vegas Raiders in March 2020 as a backup to Derek Carr.
Competition at quarterback in the works?
Mariota selected the Falcons because of former offensive coordinator Arthur Smith. He wants a fresh start, but Desmond Ridder is in his way. The Falcons picked the four-year starter from Cincinnati in the 2022 NFL Draft. Ridder is praised around the university. Ridder has the playbook, while Mariota will start against the Saints in week 1.
“As with any position, the best guy is going to play, With Marcus [Mariota] being the veteran, that’s the way it’ll go for now.” ~ Head coach Arthur Smith said after the draft
The Falcons’ chances of winning Super Bowl LVII are among the poorest in the league, so they must make the most of every victory. Each position in the game has a lot of space to improve. The Falcons’ next franchise quarterback may be either Mariota or Ridder. The only way to find out who will triumph is to have a formal competition.
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I’d be shocked if this team wins more than 6 games. Mariota played well with the raiders but I wonder if he’s learned enough to be a competent starting QB in the league?