Falcons Part Ways With QB Marcus Mariota

The Atlanta Falcons have announced the release of quarterback Marcus Mariota. Mariota, who was signed by the Falcons in March, was released after the team decided to move in a different direction at the quarterback position.

Mariota, the second overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, had a disappointing tenure with the Tennessee Titans, where he failed to live up to expectations. He was released by the Titans in March and signed with the Falcons shortly after.

Mariota was expected to compete for the starting job in Atlanta, but the team decided to go with Matt Ryan and Matt Schaub as their top two quarterbacks. The Falcons also signed former New England Patriots quarterback Brian Hoyer, who is expected to be the team's third-string quarterback.

Mariota's release is a sign that the Falcons are looking to move in a different direction at the quarterback position. The team is likely to look for a younger, more dynamic quarterback in the upcoming NFL Draft.

Mariota's release is a reminder that the NFL is a business and that teams are always looking to improve their roster. While Mariota may not have been the right fit for the Falcons, he will likely find a new home soon.