Marcus Mariota Injury Update: What Happened to the Commanders QB?

What happened to Marcus Mariota became a major question on December 20, 2025, when the Washington Commanders quarterback left the Week 16 game against the Philadelphia Eagles. Mariota exited in the third quarter after being evaluated on the sideline at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Maryland.

The Commanders confirmed Mariota was checked for a concussion and later cleared. He remained questionable due to a hand injury and did not immediately return to action.

What Happened to Marcus Mariota During Commanders vs Eagles

Marcus Mariota opened the game playing efficiently and led Washington through the early stages against Philadelphia. After halftime, the Commanders’ first possession of the third quarter ended in a punt, and Mariota was seen heading toward the medical tent along the sideline.

Shortly afterward, television cameras showed Mariota jogging to the locker room with team medical staff. The sequence raised immediate concern, given the timing and the importance of the divisional matchup.

NFL Network reporter Mike Garafolo later provided clarification during the broadcast window. He reported that Mariota had been evaluated for a concussion and cleared under league protocol. However, Garafolo added that Mariota was still listed as questionable due to a hand injury.

With Mariota unavailable, backup quarterback Josh Johnson began warming up and eventually entered the game. Washington’s offense stalled during that stretch, and an interception helped Philadelphia extend its lead.

As the fourth quarter began, the Eagles held a 14–10 advantage. Quarterback Jalen Hurts connected with tight end Dallas Goedert for a go-ahead touchdown, followed by a successful extra point. Philadelphia later widened the gap when running back Saquon Barkley scored early in the quarter.

Mariota did emerge from the locker room shortly before the fourth quarter. He was shown sitting on the bench with his helmet off, and he did not appear ready to re-enter the game at that point.

According to league tracking metrics referenced during the broadcast, Mariota entered Week 16 with a mid-tier quarterback impact grade. His absence placed additional strain on a Commanders offense already facing a strong Eagles defense.

How the Injury Affected Washington and What Comes Next

The uncertainty around what happened to Marcus Mariota had an immediate effect on Washington’s rhythm. The offense became more conservative, and Philadelphia capitalized with sustained drives and points.

From a roster standpoint, the Commanders will likely monitor Mariota’s hand injury closely in the days following the game. Hand injuries for quarterbacks can affect grip strength, throwing accuracy, and ball security.

Team officials did not announce a postgame timetable during the broadcast. Further evaluation was expected after the game, with practice participation later in the week serving as the clearest indicator of availability.

What happened to Marcus Mariota remains a developing story. His clearance from concussion protocol is a positive sign, but the hand injury will determine his status moving forward.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened to Marcus Mariota in Week 16?

Mariota left the game in the third quarter after being evaluated on the sideline. He was cleared of a concussion but remained questionable with a hand injury.

Q2: Did Marcus Mariota suffer a concussion?

No concussion was diagnosed. He was evaluated and cleared under NFL concussion protocol, according to a league report.

Q3: Why didn’t Marcus Mariota return in the fourth quarter?

Mariota returned to the bench but did not re-enter the game. The hand injury appeared to limit his availability.

Q4: Who replaced Marcus Mariota against the Eagles?

Backup quarterback Josh Johnson took over after Mariota exited. Washington’s offense struggled during that stretch.

Q5: Will Marcus Mariota play next week?

His status will depend on how his hand responds in practice. The team is expected to provide an update later in the week.