Marcus Mariota has likely played his last game with the Tennessee Titans, and it goes without saying that he did not become the player the team hoped he would be after they selected him with the second overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft. However, Mariota remains confident he can still live up to the hype.
Following Sunday’s loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in the AFC Championship Game, Mariota admitted he has “no idea” what the future holds for him. But as he heads toward free agency, the former Oregon star said he has “no doubts” he will start in the NFL again.
“I have no doubts at all, no doubts at all,” Mariota said, per Jim Wyatt of the Titans’ official website. “I’m just hopeful and ready for whatever that next opportunity is.”
Mariota was replaced by Ryan Tannehill after the Titans got off to a 2-4 start to the year. Tannehill then ignited the team and led them to the playoffs, where they pulled off huge upset road wins over the New England Patriots and Baltimore Ravens. It’s no surprise Tennessee is interested in bringing Tannehill back on a long-term deal.
Despite things not really working out in Tennessee, Mariota spoke positively of his time with the team.
“The organization took a chance on me, and I felt like I gave them everything I’ve got,” Mariota said. “Obviously, we’re not sure what is going to happen. But I know when it is all said and done, I gave this organization everything I could.”
Mariota’s best season came in 2016, when he threw for 3,426 yards, 26 touchdowns and nine interceptions. He battled a number of injuries after that and threw just 31 touchdowns compared to 25 interceptions over the next three years. He may have a tough time finding a starting gig in 2020.
