For the first time since 2007, a quarterback not named Matt Ryan will start the season for the Falcons. Just like in 2007 when the team moved on from Michael Vick, Atlanta will look to another former Oregon QB in Marcus Mariota.
The former No. 2 overall pick signed a two-year, $18.75 million contract with the Falcons on the same day that Ryan was traded to Indianapolis.
Looking a bit closer at the deal may reveal Atlanta’s offseason strategy, though. Mariota is getting $6.75 million in guaranteed money (which includes his $5 million signing bonus and his $1.75 million base salary for 2022).
