NFC South QB power rankings: Where does Baker Mayfield fit?

Marcus Mariota

A new era dawns for the Atlanta Falcons without Matt Ryan, which is entirely their own doing after going all-out for Deshaun Watson. Desmond Ridder was drafted as a potential long-term solution, but Marcus Mariota is set to fill the void in 2022 as he looks to get his own career back on track.

Much like Baker Mayfield, there was a lot to like about Mariota coming out of college. The Tennessee Titans took him at No. 2 overall and although there were some nice moments, it was clear from early on that this fit was never going to quite work out.

In a strange way, Mariota actually did more for his career by deciding to become an understudy. Being on the sidelines with the Las Vegas Raiders over the last two seasons was a humbling experience for the player, but his absence made Atlanta’s heart grow fonder and they snapped him up quickly once free agency began.

Mariota is athletic and has an NFL arm. But not having Calvin Ridley to depend on is a massive blow and expectations are relatively low for the Falcons next season following some landmark changes over the last two years.

What’s important for Mariota is making the best out of a bad situation. Otherwise, it’s hard to envisage the Oregon product getting a starting gig beyond the current campaign.