Home/Articles/NFL
NFL·INJURY·October 4, 2026 10:02 AM ET

Commanders rookie Athan Kaliakmanis replaces injured Marcus Mariota

Seventh-round pick makes NFL debut with Jayden Daniels out

Wire Report IntelligenceUpdated 41m1 min read
Post on X
With Marcus Mariota in the locker room, rookie QB Athan Kaliakmanis is about to make his NFL debut. Here was the word on Via @TomPelissero on X

What happened: Washington Commanders rookie quarterback Athan Kaliakmanis entered Sunday's game against the Indianapolis Colts to make his NFL debut. The seventh-round pick took over after starting quarterback Marcus Mariota went to the locker room due to an injury.

Why it matters: Washington's quarterback depth is being tested in London, as Jayden Daniels was ruled out prior to the contest. Kaliakmanis, selected 223rd overall out of Rutgers in the 2026 draft, is now tasked with leading the offense.

By the numbers: Mariota completed 139 of 227 passes for 1,695 yards with 10 touchdowns and seven interceptions over 11 games for the Commanders in 2025.

What to watch: Mariota's availability for the remainder of the game depends on further evaluation from the medical staff.

Sources

Box score
CONVERSATION
Loading comments…
NFLInjuryWashington CommandersAthan KaliakmanisMarcus Mariota
Follow NFL Intelligence
Real-time signals and analysis
@WireReportNFL
WR Pro
The day's sports, briefed to your inbox at 7am ET. Every claim sourced.
$9/monthFree weekly newsletter →
RELATED STORIES
← Back to Wire Report