Where will Marcus Mariota land in 2023? 5 Landing spots for ex-Falcons QB
Marcus Mariota was recently released by the Atlanta Falcons during the 2023 NFL offseason after spending just one year with the team. He basically served as a bridge quarterback for the rebuilding franchise, who also selected Desmond Ridder in the 2022 NFL Draft. The Falcons will look to move forward with their youth, while the veteran officially enters the 2023 NFL free agency class.
The good news for Marcus Mariota is that he entered free agency during a year where several NFL teams are seeking help at the quarterback position. Here are five potential landing spots that make sense for him ahead of the 2023 NFL season.
From NFL Now: The #Falcons released Marcus Mariota, but Atlanta remains open about their QB for 2023. https://t.co/PuFEoLNNwH
#1 - New York Giants
Daniel Jones is currently a free agent after his contract expired at the end of the 2022 NFL season. If the New York Giants decide to move on and replace him with a new quarterback, Marcus Mariota makes sense. Head coach Brian Daboll's offensive system features many rushing plays for quarterbacks. This is Mariota's specialty, rishing for more than 250 yards and multiple touchdowns every year that he's been a starting quarterback.
#2 - Las Vegas Raiders
The Las Vegas Raiders are choosing to move on from veteran Derek Carr during the 2023 NFL offseason. They are rumored to be interested in trading for Aaron Rodgers, but Marcus Mariota is another potential option if they go the free agency route. Mariota spent two years with the Raiders in 2020 and 2021, serving as Carr's backup, so he has a clear connection to the organization.
#3 - Tennessee Titans
The Tennessee Titans are rumored to be exploring the idea of moving on from Ryan Tannehill during the 2023 NFL offseason. While they also have Malik Willis on their roster, it's unclear if he's earned a starting quarterback role for the 2023 NFL season. Marcus Mariota spent the first five years of his career with the Titans, so it's possible the two sides could have a reunion. He could potentially serve as a bridge and mentor to Willis, who appears to need some grooming.
#4 - Washington Commanders
The Washington Commanders recently released Carson Wentz, while Taylor Heinicke is currently a free agent. This just leaves Sam Howell on their roster for the quarterback position. Howell is unproven and it's yet to be determined if the Commanders believe in him as a starter. Marcus Mariota gives them another veteran option. Head coach Ron Rivera appears to be firmly in the hot seat this year, so he may prefer to go with the veteran option.
#5 - New York Jets
The New York Jets appear to be fully committed to finding a veteran replacement for Zach Wilson as their starting quarterback for the 2023 NFL season. They apparently believe a change in position will help them reach the NFL playoffs, as the rest of their roster is loaded. They have been connected to rumors involving Aaron Rodgers and Derek Carr, but Marcus Mariota could be an alternate option if their pursuit of the stars falls short.