Marcus Mariota’s right knee just can’t catch a break, and it’s absolutely killing the Commanders right now. The guy re-injured his MCL early in today’s game against the Colts, confirming he’s out for the rest of the day. This isn’t just any injury; it’s the same MCL that needed surgery way back in 2022. Talk about a brutal blow.
Another Gut Punch for Mariota and the Commanders
Commanders head coach Dan Quinn didn’t mince words, telling the NFL Network broadcast that the team is “gutted” for Mariota. And honestly, who wouldn’t be? To go down with the same knee issue, especially after a surgical repair, has to be soul-crushing for any player. It leaves you wondering what the path forward even looks like for him. This kind of setback, especially in a game where they were already struggling, just pours salt in the wound.
Rookie QB Thrown Into the Fire (And It’s Rough)
With Mariota sidelined, the Commanders had no choice but to throw seventh-round rookie Athan Kaliakmanis into the quarterback spot. And let’s be real, he’s playing exactly like you’d expect a third-string seventh-round rookie to play under pressure. So far, Kaliakmanis is 6-for-14 for a measly 33 yards, plus an interception that practically gift-wrapped Jonathan Taylor’s second touchdown of the game in the third quarter. Right now, it’s 17-6 Colts, and you can practically hear the air going out of the Commanders’ season with every play. This one could truly get ugly, fast.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Pro Football Talk.
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