Atlanta Falcons: Three players who were overused in 2022

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Nov 27, 2022; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders defensive tackle Daron Payne (94) tips a pass by Atlanta Falcons quarterback Marcus Mariota (1) ultimately intercepted by Commanders cornerback Kendall Fuller (not pictured) in the end zone in the final minute during the fourth quarter at FedExField. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

2. Marcus Mariota, QB, Atlanta Falcons

The man, the myth, and the non-legend; Marcus Mariota. Arthur Smith and Terry Fontenot signed Marcus to what was a two-year deal with an opt-out after one year, and thank goodness they did because it was not a pretty year for the former second-overall pick.

He was perhaps the most inaccurate quarterback in the NFL during the 13 games he started. It didn’t take long for it to become clear that he definitely was not going to fill the hole at quarterback for the Falcons.

However, despite that, Arthur Smith was adamant about keeping him as QB1, until he wasn’t but by then it was way too late. Desmond Ridder should have gotten a chance well before the late bye week—it would have given the team more to evaluate this offseason, given Ridder more reps to figure things out, and given the team a better shot at winning.

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