The Atlanta Falcons have had a relatively quiet offseason.
Their biggest free-agent signings are Lorenzo Carter, Casey Hayward, and Marcus Mariota.
The former Las Vegas Raiders quarterback signed a two-year, $18.75 million deal to become the team’s potential starter.
But even with his arrival, the Falcons’ depth chart at quarterback is shallow, with him and Feleipe Franks being the only options.
They could trade for Baker Mayfield or Jimmy Garoppolo, but those transactions will create a salary cap nightmare.
However, the Falcons are looking for another quarterback, and they might use the upcoming draft to get one.
#Falcons GM Terry Fontenot said they want to add to the quarterback room in the draft and they've done all the work necessary on this year's class.
Atlanta has five picks in the top-82.
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) April 26, 2022
Pro Football Focus writer Ari Meirov tweeted, “#Falcons GM Terry Fontenot said they want to add to the quarterback room in the draft, and they’ve done all the work necessary on this year’s class. Atlanta has five picks in the top-82.”
They could use one of those selections, especially the eighth overall pick, to land a play-caller.
Such a strategy could give them a franchise quarterback that will eventually take over if Mariota fails.
Unfortunately, the 2022 quarterback class doesn’t have a can’t-miss talent.
Therefore, no one knows how many quarterbacks will be taken in the first round.
The Falcons might be better off selecting a quarterback in next year’s draft when the position’s talent pool is deeper.
Will The Falcons Draft A Quarterback?
This approach makes sense if they let Mariota be their man under center for two seasons while the rookie play-caller learns from the sidelines.
But it’s not reassuring that these quarterbacks are not being graded highly enough.
Having three options under center provides a sense of security, especially if Mariota gets injured.
If they are to draft a quarterback, the Falcons must be willing to wait for him to mature.
They might get a prospect that will be ready in a few seasons.
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