Another potential backup quarterback emerges for the Arizona Cardinals

With Marcus Mariota’s release, the Arizona Cardinals could seek him out to be the new backup quarterback and stopgap for Kyler Murray.

The Arizona Cardinals will most likely sign a backup quarterback in free agency, thanks to Kyler Murray’s ACL injury and Colt McCoy’s minor injury plus his sheer age. Therefore, don’t be surprised if the Cards add a new name to the mix, and Marcus Mariota might just be one of those players. 

One reason Mariota would be a remarkable fit for the Cardinals stems from his mobility. New head coach Jonathan Gannon wants to transform the offense to fit Murray, so finding a backup whose playing style matches his would be ideal. And as it stands, Mariota could be that quarterback. 

Marcus Mariota would be an outstanding fit for the Arizona Cardinals

A former second overall pick, Mariota hasn’t exactly shined in the NFL. He’s been on and off of three different rosters, including the Tennessee Titans, Las Vegas Raiders, and most recently, the Atlanta Falcons. 

This past season in Atlanta, however, Mariota wasn’t necessarily bad. He finished the year 5-8, completing 61.3% of his passes for 2,219 yards, 15 touchdowns, and just 9 interceptions. What really jumps out, though, is that he averaged 7.4 yards per pass attempt, 1.3 more than what Kyler Murray averaged this past season. 

Mariota also showed he is still one of the NFL’s most mobile quarterbacks, with 438 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns on 85 carries, good for 6.5 yards per tote. Overall, Mariota may not be a long-term starter in this league, but his release should catapult him to the top of the Arizona Cardinals free agent QB rankings. 

Time will tell whether Ossenfort snags Mariota. But if he’s looking for a dual threat quarterback capable of fitting into Jonathan Gannon’s and offensive coordinator Drew Petzing’s system, Mariota would be a phenomenal signing. 

(Statistics provided by Pro-Football-Reference)

Source: Marcus Mariota Cut; Possible Cardinals Quarterback Target? by Donnie Druin, SI.com