Marcus Mariota still ailing, Josh Johnson could start again for Commanders

Field Level Media|published: Mon 29th December, 18:37 2025

Dec 20, 2025; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) walks to the medical tent during the second half against the Philadelphia Eagles at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images

Marcus Mariota could be unavailable in Week 18 due to his injuries, giving veteran quarterback Josh Johnson his second straight start when the Washington Commanders close the season against the host Philadelphia Eagles.

Mariota injured his throwing hand and quadriceps in Week 16 against the Eagles and missed last week's 30-23 home loss to the Dallas Cowboys. He's dealing with stitches in his right hand.

Washington coach Dan Quinn termed it as "still a stretch" on Monday per whether Mariota might be able to play. He said he will have a better idea on Wednesday.

"There's still hope," Quinn said.

Johnson completed 15 of 23 passes for 198 yards against Dallas as the Commanders dropped to 4-12. It was his first start since 2021 with the Baltimore Ravens. The 39-yard-old is 1-9 as an NFL starter.

In four appearances this season, Johnson has passed for 241 yards and one interception.

If Johnson starts, journeyman Jeff Driskel would be the No. 2 quarterback against the Eagles.

The 32-year-old has a 1-10 record while starting games for five different teams. He has not thrown a pass in two seasons with the Commanders.

Starting quarterback Jayden Daniels (elbow) played in just seven games this season. He initially hurt the elbow on Nov. 2 against the Seattle Seahawks and aggravated it upon his return against the Minnesota Vikings five weeks later.

Center Tyler Biadasz (ankle/knee) will likely miss the finale but Quinn said he won't require surgery for either of his injuries. He was injured against Dallas.

--Field Level Media

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