Mariota ready: If Daniels doesn’t play, Commanders’ backup QB prepared

The Washington Commanders’ backup quarterback, Marcus Mariota, is in a familiar situation. If Jayden Daniels can’t play on Sunday against Las Vegas, Mariota is prepared to take the reins of the team. Daniels was unable to practice on Wednesday due to a sprain in his left knee suffered on Thursday in the loss to Green Bay. Coach Dan Quinn considers Daniels’ situation to be “day-to-day” and highlighted his good progress in recovery during the week. Quinn also emphasized that they do not want Daniels to return until he can play normally, maintaining his characteristic style.

We recognize the importance of the person and the player, and what it means for the franchise. We’re going to be smart, not just fast. This is a player who obviously wants to do everything all the time.

Dan Quinn, Coach

Washington will provide an update on Daniels’ status on Friday. In the meantime, Mariota will take all the snaps with the first-team offense, just as he did before Week 8 against Chicago last season, when Daniels suffered a rib injury. Mariota, who re-signed with Washington in the offseason, commented: “My routine is still the same. That creates a normal procedure for me and allows me to go out and play without having to worry. I just stick to my process and let it work.” Last season, Mariota played in relief of an injured Daniels in two games: victories over Carolina, where he injured his ribs, and Dallas, where he left the last game of the regular season with leg pain. The offense didn’t stop, as Mariota completed a combined 33 of 41 passes for 366 yards and four touchdowns. He threw a 5-yard touchdown pass to receiver Terry McLaurin with two seconds remaining to beat the Cowboys. Mariota played two seasons with the Raiders in 2020-21, attempting a total of 30 passes. The player, selected second overall in 2015, has played 10 seasons, throwing 97 touchdown passes.

He’s played at a high level for a long time. He’s been a starter in multiple places; he’s had to step in, even last year. He brings calmness to the group, which is reassuring for everyone. He’s a professional. You always feel his energy.

Terry McLaurin

Mariota is aware of Daniels’ desire to play. Mariota said: “It depends on whether you feel you can do what you normally do, then go for it. I’ve been in situations like this where you try to push through it and maybe you’re not playing like yourself and it’s difficult. You want to be there for your team and tough it out. We understand that Jayden will do everything he can to play. “We always tell him, just be yourself, and if you feel that during the week you return to that point, great. We will support you to be ready to play. If you need a week, that’s fine, I’ll be ready too.”