Former Terps QB Danny O’Brien Signs With Atlanta Falcons

Danny O’Brien may not have been selected in the NFL draft, but that doesn’t mean his playing days are over. The former Terps quarterback signed with the Atlanta Falcons yesterday in a surprising move. O’Brien will compete for a backup role behind Matt Ryan against QB Jeff Matthews, Dominique Davis, and Sean Renfree.

O’Brien played for the Terps during the 2010 and 2011 seasons, winning ACC Rookie of the Year honors and becoming a Freshman All-American (FWAA) in his first year on campus. O’Brien shattered just about every Maryland rookie passing record, throwing for 22 touchdowns to only 8 interceptions and 2,438 yards. Ultimately, DOB played 22 games in total for the Terps before deciding to transfer during the mass exodus of players from the program following Randy Edsall’s first season as head coach. O’Brien eventually landed at Wisconsin, where he was pulled due to poor play before finally playing at Catawba College last season.

Ultimately, O’Brien finishes his college career with 47 total passing touchdowns and 25 interceptions, and unfortunately he never improved a ton after his freshman year. Many questioned O’Brien’s decision to transfer, and it seemed like the doubters were correct because of how poorly his college career turned out. But DOB got the last laugh here, because he’s on an NFL roster now, and while the journey may not have been prototypical or ideal, the end result is a chance to compete at the highest level.

As a former Terp, we congratulate you, Mr. O’Brien!