Marcus Mariota, the former No. 2 overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft, has experienced a dynamic and evolving career. From his Heisman-winning days at Oregon to his current role with the Washington Commanders, Mariota’s journey has been marked by resilience, adaptability, and leadership. As of September 2025, he finds himself stepping into the starting quarterback role once again. This article delves into his recent performances, financial standing, and the decision-making process for fantasy football managers considering whether to start him.
Should I Start Marcus Mariota?
As of September 19, 2025, Marcus Mariota is set to start for the Washington Commanders in their upcoming game against the Las Vegas Raiders. This opportunity arises due to starting quarterback Jayden Daniels being sidelined with a knee injury. Daniels, the 2024 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, has been a standout performer for the Commanders. However, with his current injury status being day-to-day, Mariota’s experience and readiness have positioned him as the team’s starting quarterback for the week.
Mariota’s last start was in 2022, but he has remained active and prepared, showcasing his professionalism and leadership. In the 2024 season, he appeared in several games, demonstrating efficiency and poise. His performance metrics from the 2024 season include:
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Passing Yards: 364
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Touchdowns: 4
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Interceptions: 0
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Quarterback Rating (QBR): 86.3
These statistics highlight Mariota’s ability to manage games effectively without turning the ball over, a crucial factor for fantasy football managers to consider when evaluating his potential for the upcoming game.
Marcus Mariota 2024 Game Log
During the 2024 NFL season, Marcus Mariota had several notable performances. His game-by-game statistics reflect his adaptability and capability in various situations:
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Week 18 (Jan 5, 2025) vs. Dallas Cowboys: Completed 15 of 18 passes for 161 yards, 2 touchdowns, and 0 interceptions. Additionally, he rushed for 56 yards and 1 touchdown, leading the Commanders to a 23-19 victory.
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Week 17 (Dec 29, 2024) vs. Atlanta Falcons: Completed 18 of 23 passes for 205 yards and 2 touchdowns, contributing to a 40-7 win.
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Week 16 (Dec 22, 2024) vs. Philadelphia Eagles: Threw for 205 yards and 2 touchdowns, securing a 36-33 victory.
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Week 15 (Dec 15, 2024) vs. New Orleans Saints: Passed for 205 yards and 2 touchdowns in a 20-19 win.
These performances underscore Mariota’s capability to step in and lead the team effectively, making him a viable option for fantasy football managers in need of a reliable quarterback.
NFL Draft & Career Overview
Marcus Mariota was drafted by the Tennessee Titans as the second overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft. His selection was a testament to his exceptional college career at the University of Oregon, where he won the prestigious Heisman Trophy in 2014. Over the years, Mariota has played for several teams, including the Tennessee Titans, Las Vegas Raiders, Atlanta Falcons, Philadelphia Eagles, and the Washington Commanders. Throughout his career, he has accumulated over 16,000 passing yards, 97 touchdowns, and maintained a completion percentage of approximately 63%.
Marcus Mariota’s Net Worth & Salary
Net Worth
As of 2025, Marcus Mariota’s estimated net worth is approximately $75.5 million. This figure encompasses his earnings from NFL contracts, endorsements, and other ventures. His financial success reflects his long-standing presence and performance in the league.
Salary Breakdown
In 2025, Mariota signed a one-year contract with the Washington Commanders valued at $8 million. The contract includes a base salary of $1.89 million, a signing bonus of $5.5 million, and a workout bonus of $100,000, resulting in a total cap hit of $8.08 million. This financial arrangement underscores the team’s confidence in his abilities and leadership, as well as their investment in his role as a mentor to younger quarterbacks.
Fantasy Football Considerations
For fantasy football managers contemplating whether to start Marcus Mariota, several factors should be considered:
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Matchup: The Commanders are set to face the Las Vegas Raiders, a team that has shown vulnerabilities in their defense. This presents an opportunity for Mariota to exploit potential weaknesses.
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Supporting Cast: While the Commanders have faced injuries to key players, Mariota’s experience and adaptability can help mitigate these challenges.
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Playing Style: Mariota’s dual-threat capability adds value in leagues that reward rushing yards and touchdowns.
Given these considerations, Marcus Mariota presents a compelling option for fantasy football managers in need of a quarterback, especially in deeper leagues or situations where streaming options are limited.
Conclusion
Marcus Mariota’s journey in the NFL has been characterized by resilience, adaptability, and leadership. As he steps into the starting quarterback role for the Washington Commanders, he brings a wealth of experience and a track record of effective performances. For fantasy football managers, Mariota offers a reliable and potentially high-reward option, particularly in favorable matchups. His blend of passing accuracy and rushing ability makes him a valuable asset in various fantasy formats.
In summary, Marcus Mariota exemplifies the qualities of a seasoned quarterback ready to contribute meaningfully to his team’s success and to fantasy football rosters alike.
