Commanders' Mariota Sidelined with MCL Injury Ahead of Preseason Conclusion
Sources confirm Marcus Mariota sustained a sprained medial collateral ligament during Friday’s opener, raising questions for Washington’s depth chart as the team prepares for the regular season.
Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota has sustained a sprained medial collateral ligament, an injury likely to sideline him for the remainder of the preseason, according to sources speaking to ESPN. The injury occurred during the team’s exhibition opener against the Miami Dolphins on Friday, prompting an early exit from the game.
Mariota left the field after just four plays following a non-contact incident. The injury was sustained after he handed the ball off to running back Kaytron Allen, causing him to fall to the ground immediately. He was surrounded by the Washington training staff before eventually walking off the field under his own power.
Following the incident, Mariota visited the medical tent before engaging in a brief sideline conversation with starting quarterback Jayden Daniels and offensive coordinator David Blough. He then proceeded to the locker room. The specific grade of the sprain has not been detailed in available reports.
Mariota signed a one-year, $7 million deal in March to return as the Commanders' backup quarterback for a third season. During the previous campaign, he started eight games and appeared in 11 total contests while starter Jayden Daniels battled injuries. In those 11 appearances, Mariota threw for 1,695 yards, 10 touchdowns, and seven interceptions.
The Commanders won only two of the eight games Mariota started last season. Information from The Associated Press was utilised in the reporting of this injury update.
