New Chapter in Washington
Marcus Mariota has signed a one-year, $8 million contract to join the Washington Commanders as their backup quarterback. At 31 years old, he will continue in this role under the guidance of rising second-year signal caller Jayden Daniels, marking his second season in Washington.
Recent Performance and Role Transition
Mariota’s playing time with the Atlanta Falcons saw him start 13 games last season, where he completed 61.3% of his passes for 2,219 yards, 15 touchdowns, and nine interceptions. He complemented his passing game with 438 rushing yards and four scores on 85 attempts. Despite a challenging stretch that led to his benching in favor of a rookie, his previous effort demonstrated his capabilities as both a passer and a runner.
Journey Through the NFL
Drafted second overall by the Tennessee Titans in 2015, Mariota spent his initial four NFL seasons in Nashville before moving on to serve as a backup for the Las Vegas Raiders. Following his stint in Atlanta and a brief period playing behind a notable quarterback in Philadelphia, he embraced the opportunity to reunite with Washington. His first season in Washington featured a commendable performance in three games, completing 34 of 44 passes for 364 yards and four touchdowns, in addition to adding value on the ground with 92 rushing yards and a touchdown.
Looking Ahead
Mariota’s contract agreement signals a fresh start and the potential for stability as he upholds his role as a reliable backup. The league’s free agency period now opens the door for further contractual developments across the NFL, setting the stage for new challenges in the upcoming season.