The Atlanta Falcons have released quarterback Marcus Mariota, the team announced on Tuesday morning.
Mariota, 29, signed a two-year deal with the Falcons shortly after they traded Matt Ryan to the Colts, but he was eventually benched for rookie Desmond Ridder during the team’s bye in Week 14.
Ridder started the final four games of the season and appears to the starter going into 2023, assuming the team doesn’t add another quarterback this offseason.
By releasing Mariota, the Falcons free up $12 million in salary cap space, bringing their total to $67 million with free agency approaching.
The former No. 2 overall pick finished the season with 2,219 passing yards, 15 touchdowns and nine interceptions, while adding 434 rushing yards and four rushing touchdowns.
