3 Veteran quarterback the Atlanta Falcons could sign

Jan 3, 2022; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the fourth quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Philip G. Pavely-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 3, 2022; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; Cleveland Browns quarterback Baker Mayfield (6) against the Pittsburgh Steelers during the fourth quarter at Heinz Field. Mandatory Credit: Philip G. Pavely-USA TODAY Sports /
facebooktwitterreddit
Prev
1 of 4
Next
Atlanta Falcons
Jan 9, 2022; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders quarterback Derek Carr (4) celebrates with quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) during the second half against the Los Angeles Chargers at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Orlando Ramirez-USA TODAY Sports /

If the Atlanta Falcons opt not to draft a quarterback in this year’s underwhelming QB class who could the team bring in to backup or compete with Mariota? Marcus Mariota has been sitting on the bench for the majority of the last three seasons after losing his job to Ryan Tannehill.

The Atlanta Falcons should not go into the pre-season without bringing in competition for the veteran. There is nothing on tape to suggest Mariota should be handed the Atlanta Falcons starting job. His record and numbers suggest he is a top-tier backup and a capable bridge starter. However, in case of regression or issues in the Atlanta offense, the Falcons need an option beyond Feleipe Franks.

Looking around the league Atlanta has limited remaining veteran options capable of competing with Mariota. Arthur Smith’s time with the quarterback likely would give Mariota the inside track in any competition but at worst Atlanta brings in a capable backup that gives Mariota injury insurance.

Behind a terrible offensive line that allowed Ryan to lead the league in hits taken having a capable backup should be high on Atlanta’s long list of priorities. With this in mind, here are the top three options remaining on the market.