The Washington Commanders have relied more on quarterback Marcus Mariota this season than they probably wanted. He was an influential figure behind the scenes in 2024, but several frustrating injuries to Jayden Daniels thrust him into a prominent on-field role.
Mariota acquitted himself well. Things ended sourly due to a hand injury that will likely keep him out once again in Week 18, but he can look back on his efforts with an enormous sense of pride overall.
This might not go unnoticed by teams around the league looking for a bridge quarterback in 2026.