The bye week gave some Washington Commanders a chance to get healthy. Washington has battled numerous injuries through the first seven weeks of the season, which has contributed to its 1-4-1 start. Starting quarterback Jayden Daniels dislocated his left elbow (non-throwing arm) in Week 2, and Washington worried he’d miss extended time.
Fortunately, Daniels missed only two games, added a bulky brace on his left arm, and has played extremely well since returning to the lineup. Backup Marcus Mariota started for Daniels in Week 3 and was outstanding, leading the Commanders to an upset win over defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks. Mariota got off to a great start in Week 4 against the Indianapolis Colts in London, but a missed block led
a Colts defender to sack him; Mariota landed awkwardly and held his knee.
Mariota was diagnosed with a sprained MCL, the same injury he suffered in the preseason opener. It was good news, considering it looked worse.
With Washington coming out of the bye, Mariota will return to practice.
“Marcus Mariota will be back at practice and working into today,” head coach Dan Quinn said on Monday.
Rookie seventh-round pick Athan Kaliakmanis replaced Mariota in the game against the Colts and played reasonably well for his first NFL action. He’s served as Daniels’ backup over the past two weeks and will return to his No. 3 spot on the depth chart once Mariota’s return is official.
In three games played this season — two starts — Mariota has completed 64.7% of his passes for 340 yards, four touchdowns and no interceptions. He’s also rushed for 49 yards on seven attempts.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Commanders provide Marcus Mariota injury update
