Commanders’ Mariota Sidelined with MCL Injury Ahead of Preseason Conclusion

Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota has been diagnosed with a sprained medial collateral ligament (MCL) and will miss the remainder of the preseason, according to reports from ESPN’s Adam Schefter. The injury occurred during the team’s exhibition opener against the Miami Dolphins on Friday night, prompting an early exit from the contest.

Mariota left the field after just four plays in the first quarter. After taking a hard hit, he went to the ground on the subsequent play with what appeared to be a non-contact knee injury. He required assistance from the training staff to leave the field and head to the locker room.

Sam Hartman replaced Mariota in the game following the injury. Hartman has established himself as a capable option for the Commanders, having thrown for over 2,000 yards, 14 touchdowns, and seven interceptions over the past two seasons. Despite Hartman’s recent performance, Mariota’s position as the team’s backup quarterback is considered secure, assuming a swift recovery.

The 32-year-old veteran is in his 12th NFL season and has previously battled knee pain throughout his career. However, he has filled in admirably for starter Jayden Daniels, who has also missed time due to injuries, over the past two seasons with the Commanders.

According to The Washington Post’s Nicki Jhabvala, Mariota is expected to undergo rehabilitation during the remainder of the preseason. The primary objective is for him to recover in time to return for the start of the regular season, where he will likely resume his role as the primary backup to Daniels.