The Washington Commanders have needed one of the league's best backup quarterbacks more than ever this season. Jayden Daniels' constant injury problems gave Marcus Mariota an extended window in the No. 1 job. Although he's also finishing the campaign on the shelf, there could be a few teams looking to secure his services when the free-agent frenzy rolls around.
Mariota is still performing well despite his advancing years. When the veteran signal-caller gets into an early rhythm, he can successfully run an NFL offense. He's also got the mobility and athleticism to keep plays alive, which is an essential trait in the modern-day game.
There are limitations. Mariota can make mistakes when he's forced to make the issue. He's a dependable presence, but more in a game manager role with the right supporting cast around him. That may put some teams off. At the same time, several possible suitors may need a bridge option due to injuries or in support of a draft pick.
Commanders extending Marcus Mariota may not come down to money
The Commanders would love to have Mariota back, one suspects. His mentoring of Daniels was a driving force in a rookie surge for the ages. The former Oregon standout is also capable of stepping in at a moment's notice if Washington's franchise player misses time, which cannot be overstated after how things have unfolded this season.
Much will depend on Mariota's plans and the money involved. Spotrac projects the Heisman Trophy winner to get an annual salary of $8.66 million on a two-year, $17.33 million deal. That's a slight increase on the $8 million he made this season, with an extra year of financial security thrown in for good measure.
Washington could easily afford to offer Mariota this sum. But if Daniels stays healthy, there is almost no chance of him seeing the field. And after getting a prolonged taste for life in the driver's seat once again, he may opt for an opportunity to start elsewhere if a suitable opportunity arrives.
Time will tell on that, but the Commanders cannot be caught short. They have to set contingencies in place if Mariota decides to take his chances elsewhere. Josh Johnson and Jeff Driskel won't be back, and Sam Hartman may be a lost cause after Washington went with more experience under center once Mariota went down.
That's why giving Mariota this sort of money cannot be entirely dismissed. But if another franchise offers the same, with the chance to at least fight for a starting berth, all bets are off.