Marcus Mariota opens up on heartfelt reason he couldn’t leave the Commanders

As Washington Commanders rookie sensation Jayden Daniels took the NFL by storm last season, it was easy to forget about the contribution made by the team's second-string passer.

Daniels won NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. He threw for 3,568 yards and rushed for 891 more, accounting for 31 total scores. He led the Commanders to a 12-5 regular-season record, an eight-game improvement from the prior year, and added a pair of playoff victories en route to reaching Washington's first NFC Championship game since the 1991 season.

It wouldn't have been possible without the mentorship and availability to step in when necessary of his backup, Marcus Mariota, who will be back in D.C. once again this fall.

Loyalty, familiarity bring Marcus Mariota back for second Commanders season

The 10-year NFL veteran and onetime No. 2 overall pick of the Tennessee Titans decided to return to Washington rather than pursue short-term starter opportunities, citing that it was hard to pass up being where he is wanted.

They were very adamant that they wanted me back for another year. I love coach, [Dan Quinn] and just [offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury] and the offense, and for me, it was like a no brainer. To stand here 11 years in — very, very few people get an opportunity to do that. So I’m thankful for every day and the ability to go into work and have fun, cut it loose, and have such a great room that makes it so much better.Marcus Mariota via Pro Football Talk

Last season, Mariota appeared in three games, seeing significant playing time in Week 7 against the Carolina Panthers (Daniels left with a rib injury) and in Week 18 against the Dallas Cowboys (Washington pulled its starters in the second half). He passed for 364 yards and four touchdowns while adding 92 more yards and another score on the ground, proving himself to be one of the league's highest quality backups.

Most important of all was Mariota's relationship with Daniels. As a Heisman Trophy winner himself who was drafted to be the future of a franchise, the former Oregon star sees an opportunity to relive his career through helping the Commanders' young standout succeed where he, in his own words, "could have been better."

Mariota may not have quite ever become the NFL superstar that he was once envisioned to be, but he has found a valuable role in the league nonetheless. If he can continue to push Daniels to even greater heights, it will be well worth it for both himself and for all of Washington.

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