What It Means:

Mariota said he wants to be "sturdier." He's confident of maintaining his speed despite the added heft. Mariota suffered two MCL injuries as a rookie and clearly believes he was too slight. Adding more weight adds more pressure to his joints, of course, but 225 pounds is far from crazy for a 6-foot-4 quarterback, even a running one. He was listed at 222 at the Combine. It shouldn't have an adverse effect on Mariota's play.

Mariota finished his rookie campaign with 27.58 Passing Net Expected Points (NEP) and 0.07 Passing NEP per drop back. He also added 16.36 Rushing NEP and 5.19 Reception NEP, amping up his value. Injuries marred Mariota's season, but he showed enough flashes to bring optimism into his second season.