The Atlanta Falcons have informed quarterback Marcus Mariota that they are releasing him to free agency on Tuesday. He started 13 games this past season for the Falcons but was benched for rookie quarterback Desmond Ridder to close the NFL season. With the decision to release Mariota, the Falcons will save $12 million in cap space next season. Before the move, the team already had $56 million in cap space available for the 2023 NFL season. While rebuilding the team will look for deals that can make them better in the long term and help them build a future contender.
We have released QB Marcus Mariota
— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) February 28, 2023
This past season with the Atlanta Falcons, Marcus Mariota completed 184 passes for 2,219 yards, 15 touchdowns, and nine interceptions on 300 attempts. He also rushed the ball 85 times for 438 yards and four rushing touchdowns. It seems likely that Mariota will get some team interested in him for next season if he is willing to return to a backup quarterback role. A starting role next season for him isn’t likey, but there is still space for him in the NFL behind a starter. Injuries are common in the NFL and he could get to play at some point next year if a starter does go down. Free agency is coming up and he will be free to sign where he wants.
