ClutchPoints
The Washington Commanders (4-10) are digging deep into their quarterback depth chart in Saturday’s matchup against the visiting Philadelphia Eagles (9-5). Marcus Mariota has been pushed to his physical limits in the divisional tilt and is currently on the sidelines. The former No. 2 overall draft pick suffered a hand injury and was also evaluated for a concussion in the second half. Although he was cleared for the latter, Josh Johnson is now under center for the Commanders, per NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo.
Washington is nearing the end of a lost campaign, but players would surely relish the opportunity to stun the reigning Super Bowl champions. Though, that will be extremely hard to do with a signal-caller who had not thrown a pass this season. Johnson tossed an interception on his first series of the game, and the Eagles scored on a Saquon Barkley touchdown seven plays later. Philly leads by double digits in the fourth quarter at time of print.
Before exiting, Mariota was 7-of-14 for 95 yards with no TDs and no picks. Despite posting modest numbers this season, the Commanders have managed to win two games with the capable backup. Barring an improbable comeback, the Eagles will celebrate their third NFC East title in the last four years, and they will do so inside Northwest Stadium.
The hits just keep on coming for Washington and its fan base. Following a momentous trip to the NFC Championship game, the franchise has fallen back into despair. Injuries have played a significant role in the season’s failures, however. Jayden Daniels made only seven starts at QB, and wide receiver Terry McLaurin has also spent a big chunk of time on the sidelines. The offseason cannot arrive soon enough.
Though, for Marcus Mariota, the last couple of weeks are an opportunity to impress executives and coaches before NFL free agency begins in March. But he will have to get healthy first.
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