Commanders Quarterback Shakeup as Mariota Injury Hampers Washington

Mariota Sidelined With Knee Sprain

Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota is dealing with another injury setback. Mariota suffered a sprained medial collateral ligament in his right knee during Sunday's 30-13 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. Head coach Dan Quinn announced the news on Monday, stating that the timetable for Mariota's return is currently uncertain.

This is a familiar injury for the veteran quarterback. He suffered the same knee injury during a preseason game against Miami on August 14, though he managed to return to practice on September 1. Before leaving Sunday's game, Mariota led two field goal drives to put Washington up 6-0. He was hurt when defensive tackle Adetomiwa Adebawore sacked him on a third and goal play.

Daniels Prepares to Return

With Mariota sidelined, the focus turns back to starting quarterback Jayden Daniels. Quinn said Daniels is expected to practice in full this week. The team hopes he can start this Sunday against the New York Giants. Daniels has missed the last two games due to a dislocated left elbow.

Having Daniels healthy is critical for Washington. Since the start of the 2025 season, he has finished a full game only five times. When Mariota went down on Sunday, rookie seventh round pick Athan Kaliakmanis had to step in. In his first NFL action, Kaliakmanis completed 15 of 33 passes for 183 yards, throwing one touchdown and one interception. Quinn noted that the team will monitor Mariota's progress before deciding if they need to sign another quarterback.

The Commanders are also dealing with other major roster hits. Return specialist Jaylin Lane is out for the season after fracturing and dislocating his ankle on a kick return. On a positive note, the team hopes safety Nick Cross, guard Sam Cosmi, and running back Rachaad White might return this week. Receiver Terry McLaurin remains a question mark after missing Sunday's game with a hamstring injury.

What it means for the next game

New York Giants at Washington Commanders (NFL, Sun, 11 Oct): Washington Commanders win 56%, New York Giants win 44%; projected score Washington Commanders 23, New York Giants 22. Our safest pick: Giants +10.