3 teams Marcus Mariota could start for in 2023 NFL free agency
3. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Pick Analysis. . Tampa Bay Buccaneers. 3. player. 48. Scouting Report. NFC South
One strong option for Marcus Mariota in 2023 should be staying in the NFC South and going to play for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The Bucs lost Tom Brady to retirement this offseason. Their only option to replace him at this point is former second-round pick Kyle Trask, and that isn’t an option that inspires a ton of confidence.
The Bucs decided to hire Seahawks QB coach Dave Canales to be their new offensive coordinator, and they want to be able to run the ball heavily just as Seattle has done effectively, especially this past season with rookie Kenneth Walker. That desire to be a run-first team could benefit someone like Mariota greatly. If you’re looking for someone to throw the ball 40-50 times per game, Mariota’s not the one for you.
But if you want to establish a strong running game and use the pass to capitalize on wearing down a defense in that way? Mariota could help the Buccaneers stay stable in the wake of all the changes they are undoubtedly going to go through in the 2023 offseason..
Mariota is obviously familiar with the division. He would have some big targets to get the ball to in Tampa Bay and I think we’ll see the Bucs really do a lot to revamp their running game from a personnel perspective. If they can stay healthy, this is also a defense that could really carry the team if need be.
Marcus Mariota landing in Tampa Bay, especially after the hiring of Canales, is something that could make a lot of sense. Plus, playing in Florida, Mariota’s contract would be income tax-free, which is something that typically is a driving force for free agents. I don’t think beating out Kyle Trask would be much of an issue for Mariota, either.