Commanders Face Quarterback Dilemma Following Mariota’s Injury
The Washington Commanders are grappling with a critical quarterback situation after Marcus Mariota sustained a hand injury during the team’s Week 16 defeat to the Philadelphia Eagles. Mariota had been serving as the backup to Jayden Daniels, who himself is sidelined with an elbow injury that has effectively ended his season.
Coaching Insights on the Quarterback Shuffle
Head coach Dan Quinn addressed the media regarding the team’s options at quarterback for the upcoming Week 17 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, set for Christmas Day. Quinn was clear about the constraints they face, stating, “We would not consider playing Jayden [Daniels]. So, the first two options are the ones you were leading into of [QB] Josh [Johnson] and [QB] Sam [Hartman].”
Quinn emphasized that while Johnson and Hartman are the primary candidates, the door remains open for additional possibilities. “Would we consider somebody else coming in if he’s not able to? Yeah, all those are on the table. That’s something that [General Manager] Adam [Peters] and I are discussing tonight and we did today. But yeah, option A and B, as you had said, but not C,” he elaborated.
Looking Ahead to the Dallas Showdown
As the team prepares to face the Cowboys, the uncertainty surrounding Mariota’s status looms large. If he is unable to take the field, the Commanders will be forced to rely on the experience of Johnson or the potential of Hartman. The situation is fluid, and discussions about bringing in another quarterback are ongoing, highlighting the urgency of the moment.
Fans and analysts alike will be watching closely as the Commanders navigate this quarterback crisis, with their playoff aspirations hanging in the balance.
