What's Happening?
The Washington Commanders have announced that veteran quarterback Josh Johnson will start in their upcoming Christmas Day game against the Dallas Cowboys. This decision comes as Marcus Mariota is sidelined due to injuries to his right hand and quad, and Jayden Daniels is out for the remainder of the season. Johnson, who is 39 years old, replaced Mariota during the Commanders' recent loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, completing 5 of 9 passes for 43 yards and one interception. Johnson has a long history in the NFL, having been on the active rosters of 13 different teams and played snaps for seven. He previously played for Washington during their 2018 season, stepping in after injuries to Alex Smith and Colt McCoy. Johnson's career record as a starter
is 1-8, with 2,340 passing yards, 13 touchdowns, and 17 interceptions.
Why It's Important?
The decision to start Josh Johnson highlights the challenges faced by the Washington Commanders due to injuries among their quarterbacks. Johnson's extensive experience in the league, despite a less-than-stellar record, provides the team with a seasoned player who can manage the game under pressure. This move is crucial for the Commanders as they aim to remain competitive in the NFC East, especially against a strong opponent like the Dallas Cowboys. The game also underscores the broader issue of quarterback injuries affecting multiple teams, as evidenced by other teams like the Minnesota Vikings and Kansas City Chiefs also starting third-string quarterbacks on Christmas Day.
What's Next?
The Commanders will need to rely on Johnson's experience to navigate the game against the Cowboys, who are known for their formidable defense. The outcome of this game could impact the Commanders' standing in the NFC East and their playoff hopes. Additionally, the team may need to consider long-term solutions for their quarterback position, given the recurring injuries. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how Johnson performs and whether he can lead the team to a crucial victory.
