4 Atlanta Falcons who could follow Mariota out the door
By Nick Halden
The Atlanta Falcons made the first big move of what will be a huge off-season for the team releasing veteran quarterback Marcus Mariota. Releasing the veteran quarterback was the most predictable move of the Atlanta off-season saving the team over $12 million in cap space and ending Mariota’s time with the team.
Marcus had a rocky tenure as the Atlanta starter often failing to complete open throws and standing in the pocket far too long at times creating turnovers by an inability to make the obvious throw or decision.
Mariota had a few great moments with Atlanta as well but clearly isn’t a starter in this league at this point in his career. Moving on from Mariota clears the way for the Falcons to start Desmond Ridder and focus on bringing in a backup behind the second year quarterback that can be relied on to make throws that Mariota can’t.
Atlanta will continue to be active this off-season creating cap space and parting ways with players who won’t be a part of the team’s playoff push.