The Washington Commanders are doing everything in their power to solidify Jayden Daniels' support system entering his second season. One notable re-signing before the new league year began is another that will go down well with the signal-caller.
Reports confirmed that the Commanders have extended Marcus Mariota to be Daniels' backup in 2025. This was a no-brainer for general manager Adam Peters, something that provides the No. 2 overall selection with much-needed stability to build on his rookie heroics.
Commanders extending Marcus Mariota is great news for Jayden Daniels
Mariota was a huge influence on Daniels. He became a strong mentor and an exceptional guide through his rookie transition. When the dynamic dual-threat was feeling low or taking a beating, the experienced figure was always on hand to steer him on the right track.
When the Commanders needed Mariota to produce on the field, he duly obliged. His performances in the preseason were encouraging. When Daniels went out with a rib injury on the opening drive at home to the Carolina Panthers, the Oregon product stepped up with an outstanding display en route to yet another convincing victory.
Now, he's been rewarded accordingly.
There were rumors about Mariota potentially getting the chance to start elsewhere after impressing on and off the field. This wasn't the best free-agent crop and the draft class isn't exactly getting glowing reviews either. But when the well started drying up regarding alternative opportunities, the Commanders did right by the player.
Mariota's new one-year deal could be worth up to $8 million, which is a salary increase from last season. Given how influential the former No. 2 pick became, he's more than deserving.
The veteran signal-caller would have liked the opportunity to compete for a No. 1 spot. He also loves being in Washington and playing an integral role in Daniels' growth. He knows playing will be restricted to warm-up games, blowouts, and if the LSU graduate gets hurt at any stage. It's a role he's accepted and, more importantly, embraced.
Continuity is everything. Daniels has the same offensive coordinator, the same schematic concepts, the same backfield, and the same assistant coaches. Now, he'll also have the same quarterback partner to help him prepare and develop.
That's not a bad foundation from which to build by any stretch of the imagination. Hopefully, keeping everyone around will have the desired effect and Daniels can take his game to even greater heights next season.
And make no mistake, Mariota will be a driving force behind the scenes in any success that comes his way.
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