Commanders QB Mariota sprains MCL, out for rest of preseason

Washington Commanders backup quarterback Marcus Mariota will miss the remainder of the preseason after suffering a sprained medial collateral ligament in his right knee during the team's preseason opener against the Miami Dolphins. The injury occurred on a noncontact play late in the first quarter of Friday night's game, which Washington won 20-7.

Mariota, who signed a one-year contract in March to serve as the primary backup to starter Jayden Daniels, was injured shortly after completing a 22-yard pass. On the subsequent play, he handed off the ball before falling to the ground. He walked off the field under his own power and was evaluated in the medical tent before heading to the locker room. He did not return to the game. Coach Dan Quinn is scheduled to address the media regarding the injury on Sunday.

The diagnosis of a sprained MCL was first reported on Sunday, with multiple sources confirming that Mariota is expected to sit out the final two preseason contests. While the initial assessment focuses on his preseason availability, some reports indicate the injury could sideline him into the regular season. The Commanders have not yet provided a specific timeline for his...