Washington Commanders Lose Quarterbacks During International and Domestic Games

The Washington Commanders experienced significant setbacks, losing their starting quarterbacks both in the United States and the United Kingdom. On Sunday, Marcus Mariota sustained a knee injury against the Indianapolis Colts in London.

Mariota’s injury occurred when Colts defensive lineman Laiatu Latu sacked him in the pass pocket. Initially, the Commanders listed Mariota as questionable due to a right knee injury, but he was later ruled out for the remainder of the game after halftime.

Mariota led the Commanders at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, stepping in for starting quarterback Jayden Daniels. Daniels was sidelined with a dislocated left elbow suffered during a game against the Dallas Cowboys on September 20. Although Daniels began practicing on a limited basis, the Commanders hope for his return in their upcoming game against the New York Giants.

OutKick medical expert Dr. David Chao highlighted concerns about a possible MCL injury for Mariota. Dr. Chao, who has extensive experience as a former head doctor for the San Diego Chargers, anticipated Mariota’s return. However, the Commanders, despite having several opportunities, never reintroduced him, confirming suspicions about the severity. Mariota had previously undergone surgery for an MCL injury in 2022.

In Mariota’s absence, third-string quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis took his place on the field. Kaliakmanis, drafted by the Commanders in the seventh round of the 2026 NFL Draft, played college football at both Minnesota and Rutgers.