FALCONS ANNOUNCE COACHING STAFF AND QB CHANGES

The Atlanta Falcons have named Steve Jackson secondary coach, Dave Huxtable senior defensive assistant, Nick Perry assistant wide receivers coach, Shawn Flaherty assistant offensive line coach, Lanier Goethie defensive front specialist,

Patrick Kramer offensive assistant, Steven King offensive assistant, Mario Jeberaeel special projects: defense, Matt Baker special teams assistant, Michael Gray football analyst and Mateo Kambui Bill Walsh Diversity Coaching Fellow/offensive line.

On Tuesday, the Falcons announced it has released former No. 2 overall pick, veteran Marcus Mariota. The 29-year-old  signed a two-year, $18.75 deal to join Atlanta last offseason in the team trading of longtime Dirty Bird QB Matty Ice to the Colts. Mariota’s deal was structured for him to receive only $4.25 million against the salary cap in 2022, with an increase to $14.5 million in 2023 if he was still on the team.

“We’ve had great communication with both he and his agent, Ryan Tollner, throughout the process. We just believe we’re doing what’s best for the team at this time.” Atlanta General Manager Terry Fontenot said.

Atlanta general manager Terry Fontenot on decision to release Marcus Mariota. pic.twitter.com/Zq0RJPo5mo

— Josh Kendall (@JoshTheAthletic) February 28, 2023

Will we see Desmond Ridder in 2023, is the million dollar question. The verdict is still out. However the release of Mariota opens the door for more money to spend this offseason.