Marcus Mariota’s Opportunity to Lead: Commanders Look to Build Momentum Against Falcons
As the Washington Commanders head into their Week 4 matchup against the Atlanta Falcons, all eyes are on quarterback Marcus Mariota. With starting quarterback Jayden Daniels sidelined due to injury, Mariota has stepped up as the leader under center. For the Commanders, this game against the Falcons is a crucial opportunity to build momentum—and Mariota is determined to prove his value.
Mariota, in his second consecutive start, impressed head coach Dan Quinn with his performance in Washington’s 41-24 victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. The veteran quarterback completed 15 of 21 passes for 207 yards and a touchdown, showcasing his accuracy and efficiency. Additionally, he added 40 rushing yards and a touchdown on the ground, displaying the dual-threat capability that has made him an asset throughout his career.
“I’ve learned about leading from him,” Quinn said about Mariota. “When to lean in, when to watch, when to give support, and he's very thoughtful.” Quinn’s comments reflect not only Mariota’s on-field capabilities but also his leadership in the locker room. The 29-year-old has been a steady presence for the Commanders, and his approach to leading the offense has resonated with both coaches and players.
Mariota’s experience has been invaluable, especially in critical moments. Despite his challenges in recent seasons, including a brief hiatus from starting in 2022, Mariota has proven that he can handle adversity and perform when it matters most. Now, with the spotlight firmly on him, he has the chance to establish himself as the leader the Commanders need in Daniels’ absence.
The Falcons, who have also shown flashes of brilliance this season, will be a tough opponent. Atlanta’s defense is known for its aggression, particularly against the run, so Mariota’s ability to extend plays and make smart decisions with the football will be critical to Washington’s success. Quinn has expressed confidence in Mariota’s ability to handle the pressure, saying, “He’s not here to fill in; he’s here to lead.”
For Mariota, this is more than just filling in for an injured starter. This game is an opportunity to prove that he is more than capable of leading the Commanders to success, even in a difficult situation. He knows that his performance in these games could solidify his future with Washington, as well as help the team stay competitive in a tough NFC East.
As Mariota prepares for his next start, the Commanders are focused on one thing: winning. With Mariota’s steady hand under center, Washington has the chance to continue their winning ways and position themselves as playoff contenders.
Whether Mariota’s leadership will be enough to carry the team past the Falcons remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: he is ready to prove he has what it takes to lead Washington to victory.
The Commanders will face the Falcons on Sunday, September 28, 2025, at 10:00 AM PDT.
Kevin Stefanski responds to Shedeur Sanders' 'ready' comment, but Browns' actions speak louder than words
Earlier this week, Cleveland Browns quarterback Shedeur Sanders told ESPN Cleveland that he feels like he's "ready" to play right now in the league. The rookie also added that he didn't feel comfortable with his role as a scout team player.
On Friday, Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski gave an update on where Sanders is with the offense. He appreciated Sanders telling the media that he feels like he's ready to start, but didn't confirm the fifth-round pick was ready to move up the depth chart.
“Yeah, he’s doing a good job,” Kevin Stefanski, said via Pro Football Talk. “I hope all of our guys feel like they’re ready ... and they’re working very hard at it.
"We do a lot of work with our players, rookies, vets, all our guys, spending every available minute that we have with them, getting them ready physically, mentally, whether it’s in the weight room, the meeting room, out on the field. So all of our guys are working very hard.”
Browns clearly disagree with Shedeur Sanders
If Stefanski truly believed in Sanders' comments, the Browns would at least have put the former Colorado Buffaloes standout at No. 2 on the depth chart, ready to pounce if veteran quarterback Joe Flacco suffers an injury or the team decides to make a change at QB1. That job currently belongs to third-round pick Dillon Gabriel.
Stefanski doesn't appear to think Sanders is close to being ready to play for the Browns. That's saying something about Sanders' standing in the league, because Flacco isn't exactly lighting the scoreboard up. He's thrown for 631 yards, two touchdowns and four interceptions.
It might be a long time before Sanders gets a shot to prove he can start.
