Mariota Starts in London
Commanders Name Marcus Mariota Starting Quarterback as Jayden Daniels Misses London Game
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Key Points
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In the Seattle win, Mariota completed 19 of 31 passes for 183 yards and three touchdowns, and added 11 rushing yards, including a game-sealing nine-yard run in the final two minutes.
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A source close to Daniels told OutKick that he wanted to play Sunday, though he was not pressuring coaches to let him; Daniels also said his elbow felt good and described his recovery as day by day.
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The Commanders had brought in Austin Ekeler, who signed with the team that week and traveled to London; rookies Bill Croskey-Merritt and Kaytron Allen also traveled with the team as potential options if Rachaad White could not play.
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Daniels’ elbow problems have affected him before: an elbow injury in 2025 limited him to seven games. The article also lists his career totals at the time as a 66% completion rate, 5,090 passing yards, 36 touchdowns and 12 interceptions.
Marcus Mariota will start for the Washington Commanders against the Indianapolis Colts in London on Sunday, with Jayden Daniels ruled out due to a dislocated left elbow. River Bender reported that this marks Mariota's second consecutive start after he threw three touchdown passes in a win over Seattle last week. Coach Dan Quinn said the team would reassess Daniels for Week 5, leaving open the possibility of his return.
Daniels returned to limited practice this week and told coaches his elbow felt good, describing his recovery as day by day. OutKick sources revealed that Daniels wanted to play Sunday but was not pressuring the coaching staff to clear him. The Commanders may also be without running back Rachaad White but expect tight end Chig Okonkwo and linebacker Frankie Luvu to return.
Mariota Steps Up With Dominant Performance
Mariota delivered a strong performance in his last start against Seattle, completing 19 of 31 passes for 183 yards and three touchdowns. River Bender noted he also added 11 rushing yards, including a crucial nine-yard run in the final two minutes that sealed the victory. His dual-threat ability and efficient passing have given the Commanders confidence entering the London matchup.
Daniels' Injury History Creates Uncertainty
Daniels has battled elbow problems throughout his career. An elbow injury in 2025 limited him to just seven games, raising concerns about his durability. Journal Gazette reported his career statistics show a 66% completion rate, 5,090 passing yards, 36 touchdowns and 12 interceptions before this season. The Commanders are taking a cautious approach with his latest injury.
Washington Adds Depth at Running Back Position
With Rachaad White's status uncertain, the Commanders brought in veteran Austin Ekeler, who signed with the team that week and traveled to London with the squad. River Bender reported that rookies Bill Croskey-Merritt and Kaytron Allen also made the trip as backup options. The influx of talent gives the offense multiple contingency plans if White cannot play.
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