Kiyomi Cook: Marcus Mariota’s Wife and the Quiet Force Behind His NFL Comeback

Kiyomi Cook, the wife of NFL quarterback Marcus Mariota, continues to make headlines for her inspiring balance of family life and sports leadership. The former Oregon Ducks soccer player turned coach met Mariota during their time at the University of Oregon, and the couple married in 2021. Together, they share a daughter, Makaia Kei, born in December 2022.

Now based in Washington as Mariota continues his NFL career with the Washington Commanders, Kiyomi Cook’s journey from collegiate athlete to respected coach reflects her steady dedication to both athletics and family.

Background and Early Career

Born in 1993 in Gresham, Oregon, Kiyomi Cook played as a midfielder for the Oregon Ducks women’s soccer team. Known for her disciplined play and leadership on the field, Cook earned respect among teammates and coaches alike.

After graduating, she transitioned into youth soccer coaching in Nashville, working from 2015 to 2020 to develop young talent and promote teamwork and discipline among aspiring athletes.

Cook’s athletic and coaching background has made her an admired figure beyond her husband’s NFL fame, representing the quiet strength behind one of football’s most grounded couples.

Relationship With Marcus Mariota

Cook and Mariota’s relationship began during their shared college years at Oregon, where Mariota’s standout career led him to the Heisman Trophy in 2014. Despite his growing fame, the couple maintained a private and low-profile relationship.

They tied the knot in a private ceremony in 2021, surrounded by close friends and family. Their first child, Makaia Kei Mariota, arrived in December 2022, marking a new chapter in their lives focused on family and faith.

The couple occasionally appears together at events hosted by the Motiv8 Foundation, Mariota’s charitable organization that supports youth initiatives and community programs.

Family Life and Public Image

Fans and media outlets have long praised the Mariotas for their authenticity and focus on community rather than celebrity. Cook’s approach to family life and coaching mirrors the couple’s values of humility, hard work, and service.

Even as Mariota’s career has taken them across the NFL—from Tennessee to Las Vegas, Philadelphia, and now Washington—Cook has remained a steady presence, balancing motherhood and her passion for mentoring through sports.

Their story stands out in the world of professional athletics as a model of stability and partnership grounded in shared purpose.

What’s Next

As of 2025, Marcus Mariota continues his NFL career with the Washington Commanders, while Kiyomi Cook remains focused on raising their daughter and potentially returning to coaching in the near future.

Both continue to emphasize the importance of faith, family, and giving back—values that define not only their relationship but also their influence off the field.