Marcus Mariota's position as a backup quarterback has solidified since joining the Washington Commanders. After initially being signed with aspirations of starting, he has instead provided reliable support behind rookie Jayden Daniels. This shift occurred after Daniels impressed in the preseason, leading to Mariota being ranked as the eighth-best backup quarterback by CBS Sports. At 31, Mariota's dual-threat capability remains valuable, especially in a system that capitalizes on his mobility. He's already made significant contributions, including key victories in the previous season.

While thoughts of a Hall of Fame career may be unrealistic for Mariota, his experience and ability to step in when needed make him a crucial asset for the Commanders. His playoff experience with the Tennessee Titans adds to his credibility as a backup. Mariota's ability to maintain the team's momentum when Daniels is unavailable could be pivotal for the Commanders' success in the upcoming season.