Mariota poised to thrive as Commanders’ starter vs. Raiders

Veteran in 11th season steps in for injured Jayden Daniels after steady relief work last year

LANDOVER, Md. — The Washington Commanders will turn to Marcus Mariota on Sunday against the Las Vegas Raiders, with starter Jayden Daniels sidelined by injury. For Washington, the move isn’t uncharted territory. Mariota proved last season that when he came off the bench, he could keep the offense moving and the game under control.

Now in his 11th NFL season, Mariota enters this week’s matchup with the benefit of that experience. He never had to start in 2024, but when Daniels was forced out of action midgame, Mariota handled those situations with composure. He protected the football, delivered accurate throws, and used his legs to extend drives. Those relief appearances reassured Washington that the offense wouldn’t collapse without its starter on the field.

That history matters heading into Sunday. Mariota showed last year that he can fit seamlessly into the system on short notice. He thrives when making quick reads and distributing the ball, and his ability to improvise when the pocket breaks down gives him a reliable safety valve. Against the Raiders, those traits line up well with both Washington’s offensive design and Las Vegas’ defensive issues.

The Raiders have struggled to consistently pressure quarterbacks, leaving opposing passers with clean pockets and time to attack downfield. That plays into Mariota’s strengths. With Washington’s offensive line already geared toward protecting Daniels, Mariota should be in position to find rhythm early and keep the chains moving.

Washington’s skill players also set him up for success. The Commanders feature a deep receiver group that can create separation and backs who can contribute in the passing game. That balance gives Mariota the freedom to stay within the offense rather than forcing risky plays. Expect Washington to emphasize play-action, where Mariota has long been effective in pulling defenders out of position and finding crossing routes.

Perhaps Mariota’s biggest advantage is experience. After more than a decade in the league, he has faced every defensive look and knows how to manage pressure. His ability to adjust protections and recognize coverages at the line gives the Commanders a stabilizing presence in Daniels’ absence.

The offense will look different without Daniels, whose speed and improvisation change the way defenses approach Washington. Mariota doesn’t replicate that explosiveness, but he offers a steadier approach. That contrast could even work in Washington’s favor this week, forcing the Raiders to adapt to a quarterback profile they weren’t preparing to face.

Washington will hope Daniels’ injury heals quickly. In the meantime, Mariota gives the Commanders a veteran who has already shown he can step in midstream and keep the offense on course. This time, with a full week of preparation, he has the chance to do even more.