An all-too-familiar scene played out on Sunday morning, one that is devastating to Oregon Ducks fans everywhere.
Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota
left the team's game in London early with a right knee injury. After halftime, Mariota was ruled out for the remainder of the game, and he could be out for weeks to come. Commanders head coach Dan Quinn said the team is "gutted" for Mariota.Midway through the first quarter, Mariota was sacked by the Indianapolis Colts. As he went to the ground, Colts defensive end Laiatu Latu landed on Mariota's right leg, pinning his knee in an awkward position. The former Oregon star walked off the field and into the medical tent before making his way to the locker room.
Quinn confirmed at halftime
that Mariota reinjured his right MCL, which has been a big issue for the former Heisman winner throughout his NFL career. In 2022, Mariota had surgery to repair the same MCL. In the Commanders' first preseason game this season, Mariota sprained his right MCL and missed the rest of the preseason.
Here’s the play that Marcus Mariota got hurt on. He’s now headed to the locker room. pic.twitter.com/DszMaJu5mq
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) October 4, 2026
Mariota's job as the starter beyond this week was unclear, given the impending return of Jayden Daniels, but Mariota likely won't be available as the backup option while he recovers. Mariota had a solid start to the game in London, completing 3-of-4 passes for 46 yards and taking off for a 35-yard run to help the Commanders get some early points.
Starting in place of Daniels last week, Mariota led the Commanders to an upset win over the reigning champion Seattle Seahawks. The former Duck tossed three touchdowns and earned a game ball for the win.
ESPN's Molly McGrath said there is no clear timetable for Mariota's return. Depending on the severity, Mariota could miss a few weeks or potentially the rest of the season. The Commanders should hopefully have an update once they return home from London and can put Mariota through more tests.
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This article originally appeared on Ducks Wire: Commanders QB Marcus Mariota leaves game in London with knee injury
