Washington Commanders Announce Quarterback Situation for Cowboys Game
The Washington Commanders have announced that quarterback Josh Johnson will start against the Dallas Cowboys on Thursday, as Jayden Daniels and Marcus Mariota are sidelined due to injuries. Jeff Driskel will be the backup quarterback, and Sam Hartman will be promoted from the practice squad as the emergency third-string quarterback for the game in Landover, Md. Daniels and Mariota have both been dealing with injuries, with Daniels ruled out for the season and Mariota exiting the last game due to hand and quad injuries.
Daniels, the 2024 Offensive Rookie of the Year, had a solid season before his injury, completing over 60% of his passes for 1,262 yards and eight touchdowns. Mariota, on the other hand, had completed over 61% of his throws for 1,695 yards and 10 touchdowns before his recent injuries. Johnson, the experienced NFL journeyman, will step in as the starter after completing 5 of 9 passes for 43 yards in relief of Mariota.
Coach Dan Quinn expressed hope that Mariota will recover in time for the Commanders' Week 18 game. The Commanders, with a record of 4-11, will face the Cowboys (6-8-1) on Thursday and then play their season finale against the Eagles on January 4 in Philadelphia. The team is looking to finish the season strong despite the challenges they have faced with injuries at the quarterback position.