Commanders' Marcus Mariota Put on IR with Pectoral Injury; Driskel QB2 Behind Daniels

The depth of the Washington Commanders quarterback room has taken a hit prior to Week 1.

Tom Pelissero of NFL Network reported that backup quarterback Marcus Mariota has been placed on injured reserve and will be out for at least the team's next four games.

Jeff Driskel has been moved to the primary backup position while undrafted rookie Sam Hartman was signed off of the practice squad. 2024 No. 2 pick Jayden Daniels will be the team's starting quarterback.

Mariota injured his chest during practice on Wednesday. He had already been ruled out of Washington's Week 1 matchup after not participating in practice on Thursday or Friday but today's report shows that the Commanders will need Driskel to be ready to run the offense if needed.

Mariota signed a one-year deal with Washington after spending the 2023 season with the Philadelphia Eagles. He has compiled an overall record of 34-40 and would have been a strong backup option if Daniels were to be sidelined.

Driskel is entering his seventh NFL season and has appeared in 28 games and made 12 starts. However, his play has been overall lackluster as he has earned a 1-10 record with 16 touchdowns and 10 interceptions. Hartman had a strong collegiate career but would face a significant learning curve if called on soon.

However, the hope is that Daniels will not need any relief and can stay healthy as he grows into the starting role.