Grading the Commanders' latest five signings in 2024 free agency
By Dean Jones
Commanders signed Marcus Mariota
This put the cat amongst the pigeons.
The Washington Commanders reportedly agreed to terms with quarterback Marcus Mariota. He worked with pass game coordinator Brian Johnson with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2023. While his role will be as a primary backup, it promises to be integral.
Suppose the Commanders take a quarterback at No. 2 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft as expected. In that case, Mariota will serve as his veteran mentor during an important transition from college to the pros. This is the same role Jacoby Brissett took on for Sam Howell last season, although he'd been in the league for a year with one start.
Mariota has yet to reach the heights anticipated as a No. 2 pick and likely never will, but he's serviceable if disaster strikes. The former Oregon phenomenon has had ups and downs throughout his NFL journey. Passing on this accumulated knowledge to a rookie signal-caller could be an invaluable asset to call upon.
What this means for Howell's future is unclear. Some have tried the move to a potential preference for Jayden Daniels, but nothing has been confirmed one way or another. Thankfully, we won't have to wait much longer before finding out.
Grade: B+
This is a solid pickup. Even more so if the choice is Daniels or Drake Maye as widely anticipated.