NFL Rumors: Falcons Targeting Matt Ryan’s Replacement In Free Agency

The Atlanta Falcons are in search of a new starting quarterback after agreeing to trade Matt Ryan to the Indianapolis Colts. One free agent stands out as the favorite to be under center for the Falcons in Week 1.

Atlanta is expected to pursue Marcus Mariota in free agency, NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reports. Falcons head coach Arthur Smith was an assistant coach with the Tennessee Titans during Mariota’s tenure with the team from 2015 to 2019.

Nearly a week into free agency, Mariota is the best quarterback left on the market. Mitchell Trubisky signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers. Jameis Winston is reportedly returning to the New Orleans Saints. Teddy Bridgewater joined the Miami Dolphins.

Mariota has spent the last two seasons as Derek Carr’s backup with the Las Vegas Raiders. In 61 career starts with the Titans, Mariota had a 29-32 record with one playoff appearance.

The 2016 season was Mariota’s best. The quarterback threw for 3,426 yards, 26 touchdowns, nine interceptions and a 95.6 passer rating. Mariota threw for 31 touchdowns and 25 interceptions over the next two-and-a-half seasons, eventually losing his starting job in Tennessee to Ryan Tannehill.

Signing Mariota wouldn’t preclude the Falcons from drafting a quarterback in the first round. Atlanta has the No. 8 overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft. In what’s considered to be a weak quarterback class, Liberty’s Malik Willis, Ole Miss’ Matt Corral and Pittsburgh’s Kenny Pickett are candidates to be taken in the top half of the first round.

Atlanta tried to trade for Deshaun Watson. The Falcons were considered a top suitor for the quarterback until Watson was sent to the Cleveland Browns in a surprising blockbuster trade.

The San Francisco 49ers are trying to trade Jimmy Garoppolo. The Browns are looking to deal Baker Mayfield, though Atlanta isn't expected to go after Cleveland's quarterback.

The Falcons have missed the playoffs in four straight seasons. Since the start of the 2008 season, Ryan has started all but three games for Atlanta.