Eagles, QB Marcus Mariota Agree on 1-Year Deal
The Philadelphia Eagles have agreed to a one-year deal with quarterback Marcus Mariota, according to sources. Mariota, who was released by the Las Vegas Raiders earlier this month, will join the Eagles as a backup to starting quarterback Jalen Hurts.
The deal is worth $3.5 million and includes incentives that could increase the value of the contract to $8 million, according to sources. Mariota will provide the Eagles with a veteran backup quarterback with experience as a starter in the NFL.
Background on Mariota
Mariota was the second overall pick in the 2015 NFL draft by the Tennessee Titans. He spent five seasons with the Titans, starting 61 games and throwing for 13,207 yards and 76 touchdowns. He also rushed for 1,487 yards and 12 touchdowns.
After being released by the Titans, Mariota signed a two-year, $17.6 million deal with the Raiders in 2020. He appeared in only one game for the Raiders last season, completing 17 of 28 passes for 226 yards, one touchdown, and one interception.
What Mariota Brings to the Eagles
Mariota’s signing is a significant move for the Eagles, who lacked depth at the quarterback position. Hurts is expected to be the team’s starter in 2021, but Mariota provides a capable backup who can step in if needed.
Mariota’s mobility and ability to make plays with his legs also make him a good fit for the Eagles’ offense. Head coach Nick Sirianni has said that he wants to build an offense around Hurts’ strengths, which include his ability to run the ball.
Having Mariota on the roster also gives the Eagles insurance in case Hurts struggles or gets injured. Mariota has experience as a starting quarterback in the NFL and has shown the ability to make plays with his arm and his legs.
What This Means for the Eagles
The Eagles’ signing of Mariota is a low-risk, high-reward move that could pay off in a big way. If Hurts plays well and stays healthy, Mariota will likely spend most of the season on the bench. But if Hurts struggles or gets injured, Mariota can step in and provide the Eagles with a capable starter.
The move also gives the Eagles some flexibility in the draft. With Mariota on the roster, the team doesn’t have to use a high draft pick on a quarterback. Instead, they can focus on other positions of need, such as wide receiver or cornerback.
Overall, the Eagles’ signing of Mariota is a smart move that should give the team more depth and flexibility at the quarterback position. If everything goes according to plan, Mariota will spend most of the season on the bench. But if the Eagles need him to step up and play, he has the talent and experience to lead the team to victory.
