Commanders Considering Bringing Back QB Marcus Mariota for 2026

Veteran QB may return to backup role with Washington after two seasons as Commanders' reserve

Published on Feb. 24, 2026

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The Washington Commanders are considering re-signing veteran quarterback Marcus Mariota to a one-year deal for the 2026 season. Mariota, a former second overall draft pick, has served as the Commanders' backup QB for the past two seasons behind starter Jayden Daniels. With limited options for veteran free agent QBs this offseason, the Commanders may look to retain Mariota's services as an experienced backup who is familiar with their offensive system under new coordinator David Blough.

Why it matters

Mariota's potential return would provide continuity and stability for the Commanders' quarterback room, as the team looks to build on Daniels' development as the starter. Retaining Mariota could also be a cost-effective move for Washington, given the limited options and high price tags of other veteran free agent QBs this offseason.

The details

Mariota has spent the past two seasons with the Commanders after previous NFL stints with the Titans, Raiders, Falcons and Eagles. He has praised the Commanders' offensive system under former coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, and the team may look to bring him back to work with new OC David Blough, who plans to keep many of the same plays. However, Mariota's future in Washington could depend on whether he is content to reprise his backup role behind Daniels or if he seeks a better opportunity to compete for a starting job elsewhere.

  • Mariota signed one-year deals with the Commanders in the past two offseasons.
  • The Commanders' 2026 season is set to begin in September 2026.

The players

Marcus Mariota

A former second overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, Mariota has served as the Commanders' backup quarterback for the past two seasons after previous stints with the Titans, Raiders, Falcons and Eagles.

Jayden Daniels

The Commanders' starting quarterback, who Mariota has backed up for the past two seasons.

David Blough

The Commanders' new offensive coordinator, who plans to keep many of the same plays from the previous system that Mariota praised.

Dan Quinn

The Commanders' head coach, who wants an offense that can control the clock and keep his defense off the field.

Adam Peters

The Commanders' general manager, who will have to weigh the team's options at quarterback this offseason.

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What’s next

The Commanders will need to decide in the coming weeks whether to offer Mariota a new contract to return as Daniels' backup in 2026.

The takeaway

Retaining Mariota would provide the Commanders with an experienced and familiar backup option, but the team will have to weigh whether he is content to reprise that role or if he may seek a better opportunity to compete for a starting job elsewhere this offseason.