Falcons sign backup QB AJ McCarron

Going into day 2 of the 2021 NFL Draft the Falcons still only had one quarterback on the roster: Matt Ryan. The retirement of Matt Schaub and the release of Kurt Benkert made the backup a question mark, one that many felt might be addressed in the draft as early as the No. 4 pick. The Falcons went with Kyle Pitts, leading to speculation that they might target one on day two or three.

Well, Atlanta has now filled the position...for now. They announced the signing of veteran A.J. McCarron.

McCarron was originally drafted by the Cincinnati Bengals in the fifth round of the 2014 NFL Draft out of Alabama. He’s bounced around the league over the past 7 years, landing with the Raiders and Texans after his stint in Cincy. He appeared in just 2 games for the Texans in 2020.

With McCarron signing to a one year deal, it seems entirely possible the Falcons could still try to secure another QB in this draft class, particularly on day 3. Names like Jamie Newman have been floated around as someone with talent but who needs significant time to mature. McCarron, at minimum, gives the Falcons a veteran QB who can take snaps in a pinch, but who is best relied on to hold the clipboard.

What are your thoughts on the signing of McCarron?