Marcus Mariota: Falcons' coaching staff challenges quarterbacks mentally

Marcus Mariota, Falcons quarterback, has been in the NFL seven years.

Marcus Mariota: Falcons' coaching staff challenges quarterbacks mentally

Marcus Mariota, Falcons quarterback, has been in the NFL seven years. But he's still learning a lot just a few months after moving to Atlanta.

Mariota stated that Arthur Smith, Falcons head coach and his staff constantly challenge the quarterbacks to improve mental approach to the game.

Mariota stated that "they challenge us," via the team website. They want us to understand the reasons we have certain coverages and why we use them. It's stimulating mentally because it challenges us to see it from a different perspective. Art and his staff are great at stimulating your mind. Every day is a new day. We always have something to talk about. That's why I love that part.

Smith stated that he sees his role with quarterbacks as one of teachers trying to ensure his students understand the subject matter.

Smith stated, "Our job is to coach them. You're really a teacher." "They're the ones who are actually out there on that field, so we try to educate them and make sure we're in sync."

After saying goodbye to Matt Ryan and replacing him with Mariota, it's going be a huge challenge for the Falcons this year to win. They also have to deal with the long-term effects of constantly kicking the salary cap can.