There has been a ton of movement around the NFL; it’s literally like one of us is playing Madden with Derrick Henry joining the Ravens, Brian Burns being traded to the Giants, and the Falcons signing Kirk Cousins.
It’s been a hell of a first few days of free agency, but some of the less talked-about moves are just as notable. A couple that really caught my eye were the Vikings handing Jonathan Greenard $72 million, the running back carousel, and Marcus Mariota landing in Washington, joining former Falcons head coach Dan Quinn.
Former Eagles QB Marcus Mariota is signing with the Washington Commanders on a 1-year deal with a base value of $6 million and upside to $10 million, per source. pic.twitter.com/LffoYcfibh
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 12, 2024
During his 13 starts with the Falcons in 2022, Mariota’s play was tumultuous; there were bright moments and not-so-bright ones. He threw for 2,219 yards and 15 touchdowns against just nine interceptions on 61.3% passing but was eventually benched in favor of rookie third-round pick Desmond Ridder.
He’d go on to sign a one-year deal to backup Jalen Hurts. He only appeared in three games, completing 15-of-23 passes for 164 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
What’s most interesting about this deal is Dan Quinn and the Commanders. With the anticipation of the Bears taking Caleb Williams, Washington holds the No. 2 overall pick and will have their choice of Drake Maye or Jayden Daniels.
Now, if we use a little deductive reasoning, we can assume their preference. Marcus Mariota is much closer to the type of quarterback the Heisman trophy winner is than the UNC product.
For all intents and purposes, Mariota was brought in to be a backup to a similar type of player. The former Falcons head coach will get his franchise quarterback in April, and it seems like it will be Jayden Daniels.
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Photographer: Chris Williams/Icon Sportswire
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