Marcus Mariota’s first preseason snap with the Washington Commanders didn’t go the way anyone wanted.
The former Oregon Ducks star started Friday night’s preseason opener against the Miami Dolphins, but he was forced out during the opening drive after suffering what appeared to be a leg injury. Mariota had just connected on a deep throw to Dyami Brown for a 22-yard gain, only to absorb a heavy hit on the play.
On the next snap, he pivoted to hand the ball off to rookie running back Kaytron Allen and stumbled. Mariota then headed to the locker room with help from the training staff.
At this point, the severity of the injury isn’t known, and it’s still unclear exactly which play caused it. As he left the field, reports said Mariota was pointing toward his knee before making his way inside.
The injury adds another uneasy chapter to a career that has already been shaped by plenty of them. Mariota is entering his 12th NFL season, has dealt with knee pain before and has missed a lot of time over the years. Still, he has been a steady presence for Washington the past two seasons, stepping in capably for Jayden Daniels when Daniels has been sidelined.
For now, Mariota’s role isn’t in question. He remains the Commanders’ backup quarterback. Sam Hartman took over after Mariota exited and is also battling for a roster spot.
Mariota’s NFL path has taken him from Tennessee to Las Vegas, Atlanta, Philadelphia and now Washington, but he still stands alone in Oregon history as the school’s only Heisman Trophy winner. His 2014 season was the stuff of legend, helping carry the Ducks to the national championship game before he became the No. 2 overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft.
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