Commanders QB Curse Strikes Again: Mariota Injured, Rookie Kaliakmanis Steps Up
The Washington Commanders are down to their third-string quarterback after Marcus Mariota left Sunday's game with a knee injury, forcing rookie Athan…
The Washington Commanders' quarterback troubles continued Sunday as Marcus Mariota was forced out of the game against the Indianapolis Colts with a knee injury, making way for seventh-round rookie Athan Kaliakmanis to make his NFL debut [1]. Mariota, who was starting in place of the injured Jayden Daniels, was ruled out of the game at halftime after suffering the injury in the second series [2].
Mariota's right knee appeared to bend during a sack by the Colts' Adetomiwa Adebawore and Laiatu Latu [1, 2]. He had completed three of four passes for 46 yards and added a 35-yard run before his exit [1]. This marks Mariota's second injury of the season, after a sprained right MCL in the preseason opener [2].
The Commanders were already without starting quarterback Jayden Daniels, who missed his second consecutive game due to a dislocated left elbow [2]. Daniels is reportedly aiming to return next Sunday against the Giants, according to The Athletic [1]. However, ESPN's Adam Schefter has reported that Daniels will likely need offseason surgery for his elbow, which he has dislocated for the second straight year.
With Mariota sidelined, Athan Kaliakmanis, a 23-year-old rookie from Rutgers, took the field for his first NFL snaps [2]. Kaliakmanis previously played for Rutgers for two seasons, where he started 20-22 games and accumulated 5,820 passing yards and 38 touchdowns, having transferred from Minnesota after the 2023 season [1]. He quickly made an impact, connecting with Treylon Burks for a 47-yard touchdown in the third quarter.
The Commanders' injury woes extended beyond the quarterback position, with top wide receiver Terry McLaurin and starting right guard Sam Cosmi also out [2]. Defensive end Charles Omenihu and wide receiver Jaylin Lane also left the game with injuries.
Mariota had led Washington to a surprising victory over the reigning Super Bowl champion Seahawks last week, throwing for 183 yards and three touchdowns [1, 2].
Sources
This article is based on reporting by the outlets below.
- New York Post: Marcus Mariota ruled out after injury as Commanders turn to ex-Rutgers QB Athan Kaliakmanis
- ESPN: Mariota injured early as Commanders turn to 7th-round rookie at QB
