Overview
- Marcus Mariota suffered a sprained medial collateral ligament in his right knee during the Commanders’ preseason opener on Friday and will not play again in the preseason, a diagnosis coach Dan Quinn confirmed on Sunday.
- Quinn said he is optimistic Mariota could be ready for the regular-season opener and that the team does not plan to sign another quarterback at this time.
- With Mariota out, the Commanders have turned backup reps to Sam Hartman and rookie Athan Kaliakmanis and will use the remaining preseason practices to evaluate whether either can reliably serve as Jayden Daniels’ immediate insurance.
- Washington also received positive news that center Nick Allegretti and tight end John Bates are expected to return to practice this week, which helps offensive-line continuity after the loss of Laremy Tunsil.
- If Mariota’s recovery slips or preseason reps leave the staff uneasy, the Commanders could pursue a veteran free agent to protect against the risk of Daniels missing regular-season time.