Marcus and Kiyomi continue to raise their daughter Makaia, the future holds many exciting possibilities for their growing family
While Marcus’ football career may be entering a new chapter, the couple’s focus on family remains at the core of their lives.
They have shown that with love, commitment, and balance, it’s possible to succeed in both your personal and professional life.
For Marcus Mariota, the joy of becoming a father has given him a renewed sense of purpose. While his football journey will continue to shape his legacy, it is clear that the love and support of his wife Kiyomi and their daughter Makaia will always be his greatest source of strength.
The Mariota family’s journey together has just begun, and fans can expect many more memorable moments as they continue to build their lives together.
Also Read:Â Who Is Makaia Kei Mariota? Meet Marcus Mariota Daughter & Wiki/Bio And Age Explored
Table of Contents
Marcus Mariota: From College Stardom to NFL Journeyman
Marcus Ardel Taulauniu Mariota, widely recognized as Marcus Mariota, is a name that resonates with football fans.1
Known for his explosive college career and a roller-coaster journey in the NFL, Mariota’s story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and unwavering dedication to the sport.
Early Life and Beginnings in Hawaii
Born on October 30, 1993, in Honolulu, Hawaii, Mariota grew up in a close-knit Samoan family. His athletic prowess was evident from a young age, excelling in multiple sports, including track and field.
However, football was where he truly shone, earning him a spot at Saint Louis School, a powerhouse for producing football talent in Hawaii.
At Saint Louis, Mariota was a standout quarterback, impressing scouts with his mobility, arm strength, and composure under pressure.
Despite limited starting experience, his potential was undeniable, and the University of Oregon took notice, offering him a scholarship that would set the stage for his rise to stardom.
Dominance at the University of Oregon
Mariota joined the Oregon Ducks in 2011 and redshirted his first year. He quickly became the starting quarterback in 2012, showcasing his dual-threat capabilities.
Over three seasons with the Ducks, Mariota rewrote record books and established himself as one of college football’s most electrifying players.
Marcus Mariota: Career
The NFL Draft and Early Career with the Tennessee Titans
The Tennessee Titans selected Mariota with the second overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, making him the highest-drafted player in Oregon’s history.2
Expectations were sky-high as he transitioned to the professional level.
Mariota’s NFL debut in 2015 was nothing short of sensational. In his first game, he threw four touchdown passes, finishing with a perfect passer rating of 158.3.
He became the youngest quarterback in NFL history to achieve such a feat in his debut. Despite the Titans’ struggles as a team, Mariota’s potential was evident, and he continued to develop as a promising young quarterback.
Ups and Downs in Tennessee
Over the next four seasons, Mariota displayed flashes of brilliance but struggled with consistency and injuries.
He led the Titans to a playoff appearance in the 2017 season, highlighted by a memorable Wild Card Game against the Kansas City Chiefs, where he threw a touchdown pass to himself after a deflection.
However, recurring injuries and a lack of stability on offense hindered his progress.
In 2019, the Titans acquired Ryan Tannehill, who eventually replaced Mariota as the starting quarterback midway through the season. This marked the end of Mariota’s tenure in Tennessee, with a record of 29-32 as a starter.
Record-Breaking Stats and Awards
During his college career, Mariota threw for an impressive 10,796 passing yards, 105 touchdowns, and just 14 interceptions.
His ability to make plays with his legs added another dimension to his game, as he rushed for 2,237 yards and 29 touchdowns.
In his junior year, he became the first Oregon player to win the prestigious Heisman Trophy, solidifying his place among college football legends.
Mariota’s trophy case also includes the Maxwell Award, given to the nation’s best all-around player, and the Walter Camp Award, recognizing the most outstanding player. These accolades reflected his impact on the field and his leadership qualities.
Leading Oregon to the National Championship Game
In 2014, Mariota led the Ducks to a historic season, culminating in a berth in the inaugural College Football Playoff National Championship Game.
Although Oregon fell short against Ohio State, Mariota’s performance throughout the season was nothing short of spectacular.
His ability to read defenses, deliver accurate throws, and execute Oregon’s high-tempo offense made him a top prospect for the NFL.
Marcus Mariota: Las Vegas Raiders and Beyond
Following his departure from the Titans, Mariota embraced a new role as a backup quarterback.3
He signed with the Las Vegas Raiders in 2020, where he provided valuable depth behind Derek Carr.
Memorable Performance with the Raiders
Although opportunities were limited, Mariota made a memorable appearance during a 2020 game against the Los Angeles Chargers.
Stepping in for an injured Carr, he showcased his dual-threat abilities, throwing for 226 yards, rushing for 88 yards, and scoring two total touchdowns. This performance reminded fans of his potential and versatility.
In 2022, Mariota signed with the Atlanta Falcons, seeking a chance to revive his career as a starting quarterback.
He started 13 games for the Falcons, displaying flashes of brilliance but struggling with consistency. The Falcons opted to pivot to rookie quarterback Desmond Ridder late in the season, leading to Mariota’s departure from the team.
A Fresh Start in Philadelphia
Mariota joined the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023, serving as a backup to Jalen Hurts. While he saw limited action, his experience and mentorship proved valuable to the team.
The Eagles’ high-powered offense and deep playoff run provided Mariota with a fresh perspective on the game.
In 2024, Mariota signed with the Washington Commanders, continuing his journey as a backup quarterback.
His veteran presence and knowledge of the game make him a valuable asset to the Commanders’ roster. While his role is primarily supportive, Mariota remains prepared to step in and contribute whenever needed.
Also Read:Â Who Is Matt Mariota (Marcus Mariota Brother)? Details About Their Family
Marcus Mariota: Family Life
Marcus Mariota, the former NFL quarterback, is not just known for his athletic prowess but also for his devotion to family.
While his journey to success on the football field has been well-documented, his life off the field, particularly with his wife Kiyomi Cook and their daughter Makaia, reveals a side of the athlete that many may not be familiar with.
Here, we dive into the details of Marcus Mariota’s personal life, focusing on his relationship with his wife, their family, and their precious moments as parents.
The Mariota Family: A New Chapter Begins
On December 7, 2022, Marcus Mariota and his wife Kiyomi welcomed their first child into the world, a beautiful daughter named Makaia. This marked a significant milestone in the couple’s life, as they embraced parenthood with joy and excitement.
The birth of their daughter Makaia was celebrated by both Marcus and Kiyomi, who shared their happiness with their followers on social media, with heartfelt posts about becoming parents and the profound love they already felt for their little one.
The couple had been married a year earlier, in 2021, and had been in a committed relationship for years prior to their marriage. With their growing family, Marcus and Kiyomi’s bond only deepened as they navigated the challenges and rewards of raising a child.
Makaia’s arrival symbolized a new chapter for the Mariota family, marking a period of growth, love, and joy for the couple as they adjusted to life as parents while balancing Marcus’ demanding football career.
Marcus Mariota’s Relationship with Kiyomi Cook
Kiyomi Cook, Marcus Mariota’s wife, is not only known for her personal achievements but also for her relationship with the NFL quarterback.
Their journey together began in 2014 when they first met while both were attending the University of Oregon.
Although Marcus was already a rising star in the football world, Kiyomi was making her own mark in athletics, playing soccer for the Oregon Ducks.
It was during their time at the University of Oregon that the two first connected, developing a bond that would last for years. Kiyomi’s background in sports, particularly soccer, undoubtedly helped her relate to Marcus’ busy athletic lifestyle, and their shared experiences forged a strong connection between the couple.
Their relationship blossomed during their college years, and by 2021, Marcus and Kiyomi had taken the next step by tying the knot in a beautiful wedding ceremony in Hawaii.
Their wedding was a private affair, with close friends and family in attendance to witness the union of two people who had supported each other through both their personal and professional endeavors.
For Marcus, who had already become a well-known name in the sports world by this time, his marriage to Kiyomi was a reminder of the importance of having a solid support system both on and off the field.
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Marcus Mariota’s Path to the NFL
Before becoming a family man, Marcus Mariota had already experienced a highly successful career in football. Born in Honolulu, Hawaii, Marcus was a standout quarterback for the University of Oregon Ducks before entering the NFL.
His college career was a springboard that led to his selection as the second overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft by the Tennessee Titans.
Throughout his career, Marcus demonstrated remarkable skill as a quarterback, known for his athleticism, accuracy, and leadership on the field. He played for several teams, including the Tennessee Titans, Las Vegas Raiders, and Atlanta Falcons, leaving a lasting impact on the NFL.
Despite the challenges that come with playing at the highest level of football, Marcus always remained grounded, placing a strong emphasis on family, humility, and work ethic.
His career success has provided financial security for his family, but his devotion to his wife and daughter remains a priority. Throughout his career, Marcus has been vocal about the importance of maintaining balance in his life and ensuring that his family comes first, even while pursuing his professional dreams.
Also Read:Â Who Is Makaia Kei Mariota? Meet Marcus Mariota Daughter & Wiki/Bio And Age Explored
