Atlanta Falcons Quarterback In 2022: A Look Back
Hey guys, let's dive deep into the Atlanta Falcons' quarterback situation in 2022. It was a year of transition, wasn't it? The team waved goodbye to long-time starter Matt Ryan and handed the reins to Marcus Mariota, with rookie Desmond Ridder waiting in the wings. This shift at the most crucial position on the field definitely shaped the Falcons' season. We're going to break down what happened, who played, and what it all means moving forward. Get ready for some serious football talk!
Marcus Mariota: The Veteran Bridge
When we talk about the Atlanta Falcons QB 2022, Marcus Mariota immediately comes to mind. He was brought in to be the veteran presence, the guy who could steer the ship while the team figured things out. And honestly, he did a decent job for a good chunk of the season. Mariota started 13 games for the Falcons in 2022. He threw for 2,246 yards, 15 touchdowns, and 9 interceptions. Not exactly lighting the world on fire, but he managed the offense, kept them competitive in several games, and showed flashes of that playmaking ability we saw earlier in his career. His mobility was a definite asset, adding a different dimension to the offense that Ryan didn't quite have. However, there were definitely moments where his limitations became apparent, especially in terms of consistent downfield passing. The team often leaned on a run-heavy attack, which worked at times, but it also made them predictable. Mariota's leadership and experience were valuable, but the Falcons clearly had their eyes on the future.
Desmond Ridder: The Rookie's Glimpse
Then there's Desmond Ridder, the guy many fans were eager to see. Drafted in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft, Ridder spent his rookie year learning behind Mariota. He finally got his chance to start the last four games of the 2022 season. While the sample size is small, these starts gave us a valuable glimpse into what Ridder might bring to the table. In those four starts, he threw for 606 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 0 interceptions. Yes, you read that right – zero interceptions! That's a really encouraging stat for a rookie QB. However, the touchdown numbers were also low, indicating that the offense still struggled to finish drives consistently. Ridder showed poise and a willingness to push the ball downfield at times, but the overall production didn't skyrocket. The team's offensive line play and the overall skill players around him also played a role in how he performed. It's tough for any rookie QB to come in late in the season with everything on the line, but Ridder's performances were promising enough to build on.
A Season of Transition and Learning
Ultimately, the Atlanta Falcons QB 2022 story is one of transition. Moving on from a franchise icon like Matt Ryan is never easy, and the team opted for a veteran stopgap in Mariota while developing their future signal-caller in Ridder. This strategy allowed them to remain competitive without rushing Ridder into a situation he wasn't ready for. While the team didn't make the playoffs in 2022, the quarterback room experienced significant growth. Mariota provided a steady hand, and Ridder gained invaluable experience on the field. The coaching staff had to balance immediate success with long-term development, which is a delicate act in the NFL. Analyzing the play of both quarterbacks helps paint a clearer picture of where the Falcons stood and where they were headed. It was a season where fans saw different styles and approaches from their quarterbacks, all contributing to the team's overall narrative. The decision-making at the quarterback position was clearly a strategic move designed to set up the team for future success, rather than aiming for a complete rebuild or a desperate playoff push with an unproven player.
What Does This Mean for the Future?
The quarterback carousel of 2022 obviously sets the stage for the Atlanta Falcons QB 2022 and beyond. With Mariota eventually being released, the focus squarely shifts to Desmond Ridder. The team has invested in him, and now it's his time to prove he can be the franchise quarterback. The development of Ridder will be paramount. Will he build on the positive aspects of his rookie campaign? Can he improve his decision-making under pressure and elevate the play of those around him? These are the million-dollar questions. The Falcons' front office and coaching staff have made it clear they believe in Ridder's potential. They'll likely continue to surround him with talent, both through the draft and free agency, to give him the best chance to succeed. The offensive line needs to be solid, the running game needs to remain a threat, and the receiving corps needs to become more consistent. The Atlanta Falcons QB 2022 season was a stepping stone, a necessary period of evaluation and growth. Now, the real work begins as they look to solidify their quarterback position for years to come. It's an exciting time for Falcons fans, with a young quarterback ready to make his mark and a team looking to climb the NFC South standings. The future is unwritten, but the groundwork has been laid.
