Commanders QB Josh Johnson to make first NFL start since 2021

Washington Commanders will begin josh johnson at quarterback for their game against dallas cowboys On Christmas Day, in denial marcus mariota Due to quad injury.

Johnson will make his 10th career start on Thursday and his first since Week 9 of the 2021 season Baltimore RavensHis only win as a starter came when he played for Washington in 2018 and after two other quarterbacks (Alex Smith and Alex Smith) were signed late in the season, colt mccoy) were hurt.

Washington signs veteran Jeff Driskell beyond Arizona Cardinals“The practice squad will make him the No. 2 quarterback on Thursday,” coach Dan Quinn said Wednesday. Sam Hartman Will be promoted from the Commanders’ practice squad and serve as the emergency third quarterback.

Johnson may be without one of his main pass protectors as a left tackle. laremy tunsil According to Quinn, he is “unlikely to play” due to an oblique injury.

As far as Johnson is concerned, Quinn said he has “a lot of versatility” and “a lot of experience.” The 39-year-old Johnson has spent time with 14 franchises during his 10-year career. He has also played in the XFL, UFL and AAF.

Johnson said his career has been a unique experience “but it’s one I don’t take lightly.”

However, he added, “It’s been a stressful journey, a journey I wouldn’t wish on anyone. I’m accepting it with gratitude and trying to be a light for this team.”

Johnson relieved Mariota in the third quarter of Saturday’s 29-18 loss. philadelphia eaglesMariota injured a quad and his right hand, requiring six stitches during the game, Quinn said that Mariota was having quad discomfort and it was uncertain whether he would be available to play in the season finale in Week 18,

Washington was leading 10–7 when Mariota fouled out against Philadelphia. Johnson completed 5 of 9 passes for 43 yards and one interception.

playing for in 2021 New York JetsJohnson threw for 317 yards and three touchdowns in the 45–30 loss. indianapolis coltsHis only win for Washington came in Week 15 of the 2018 season,

Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury said playing for so many teams allows Johnson to be a quick study, even though he has been with Washington the entire season.

“All those things have allowed him to play with a really cool head,” Kingsbury said. “He’s a very accurate player and the ball goes to the right places when he’s out there.”