- The Washington Times - Monday, March 9, 2026

Marcus Mariota is staying in Washington. The backup quarterback agreed to return to the Commanders on a one-year, $7 million deal on Monday, a source familiar with the negotiations told The Washington Times.

The contract could pay Mariota as much as $11 million if Mariota meets hits certain statistical incentives.

The Oregon product started eight games for Washington last season, securing a 2-6 record while tossing 10 touchdowns and seven interceptions with 1,695 yards. The 32-year-old added 297 yards as a runner. 



Mariota signed with Washington ahead of the 2024 season and has served as a mentor for starting quarterback Jayden Daniels.

The 2014 Heisman Trophy winner was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2015 draft for the Tennessee Titans. But after an underwhelming tenure with the Titans, Mariota has bounced around the league, primarily as a backup. He has thrown 76 career touchdowns across stints with the Titans, Commanders, Las Vegas Raiders, Philadelphia Eagles and Atlanta Falcons.

• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.

Copyright © 2026 The Washington Times, LLC. Click here for reprint permission.

Please read our comment policy before commenting.