Quarterback Marcus Mariota. Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports

Falcons sign Marcus Mariota to two-year deal

By Chelena Goldman | Last updated 3/21/22

The Atlanta Falcons were not without a starting quarterback for very long, as they signed Marcus Mariota to a two-year deal shortly after trading franchise icon Matt Ryan. The long-time Falcons signal-caller was traded to the Indianapolis Colts. Ryan, a four-time Pro-Bowler, spent the entirety of his 14-year NFL career with the Falcons, leading them to a Super Bowl in 2016-17.

That was fast: The #Falcons have agreed to a 2-year deal with QB Marcus Mariota.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) March 21, 2022

Mariota, who got his NFL career started with the Tennessee Titans, spent the last two seasons backing up Derek Carr for the Las Vegas Raiders. While he didn't get much playing time in 2021 in part due to injuries, the move to Atlanta offers him a fresh start back into the starter's role.

The role would also reunite the 2014 Heisman Trophy winner and former first-round pick with head coach Arthur Smith, who he knows from his days with the Titans.

Arthur Smith is a huge Marcus Mariota fan — reunites with him in Atlanta after #Titans’ days. #Falcons have a new QB who will have a real shot to start Week 1. Mariota had other suitors as well. https://t.co/DoUbwbrcDT
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) March 21, 2022