Marcus Mariota’s season has been a roller coaster in so many ways. The veteran stepped in as the unquestioned starting quarterback for the Falcons, got off to a pretty hot start to the season, regressed mightily, and then lost his starting job over the bye. Now, his season ends with a trip to injured reserve.
Arthur Smith told reporters Wednesday that Mariota is gearing up for surgery, presumably on the chronic knee condition the team referenced earlier this week, and will hit IR today. The Falcons will have an open roster spot to work with, and will roll ahead with Desmond Ridder, Logan Woodside, and Feleipe Franks at quarterback.