Based on the film, current Commanders backup quarterback should be a starter. The latest YouTube video from Wolf Sports dives into the All-22 from last season, when Mariota played at a very high level for Washington. He’s also someone who has a playoff win at Arrowhead—and is highly respected by his former and current teammates, which is critical for a quarterback.
Mariota vs. the Panthers
In his first extensive NFL action in a while last season, Mariota lit up the Panthers after he was inserted for an injured Jayden Daniels. Mariota was extremely efficient, going 18/23 for 205 yards and two touchdowns while also making plays with his legs. Among the highlights was a tremendous dime to tight end Zach Ertz in the end zone after rolling out and making a play with his arm and his legs.
Mariota at Dallas in Week 18
It wasn’t just the one game. With NFC playoff seeding still on the line in Week 18, the Cowboys defense was shutting down the Commanders. Jayden Daniels was banged up and rested in the second half, when Mariota was inserted and gave the offense a major jolt. The veteran quarterback threw pinpoint passes against a defense that had very tight coverage. Ultimately, Mariota led the team on a long game-winning touchdown drive capped by a dot to wide receiver Terry McLaurin on a fade route.
Kliff Kingsbury’s offense
Clearly, Mariota was very comfortable in Kliff Kingsbury’s offense, quietly playing just as well as Offensive Rookie of the Year Jayden Daniels—which says a lot. Washington was confident in Mariota under center, allowing him to play free by utilizing his legs in a fast-paced attack with run-pass options. Despite this, Mariota drew little interest during the offseason, settling for a bargain backup quarterback deal with the Commanders.
Mariota in 2025
Through two starts, Mariota’s strong play for the Commanders has continued with Daniels out of the lineup due to a knee injury. He was excellent in a comfortable win over a Raiders team that seemingly didn’t consider him as a starting option during the offseason, and he played solid in a loss to the Falcons—continuing to show that he can operate a dangerous NFL offense.
What’s next for Mariota?
Mariota is far too valuable for the Commanders to trade to a quarterback-needy team, but hopefully teams give the Heisman Trophy winner another look as a starter this offseason. When he’s been in situations with top offensive coaches, like Kingsbury and Jon Gruden (Mariota played very well in one game of extensive action for the Raiders in 2020), Mariota has shown what made him the No. 2 pick in the draft in 2015. With the way he’s looked playing for Kingsbury, that’s a potential coach-quarterback pairing that makes sense for organizations in 2026.
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