John Keim
The Washington Commanders will start Josh Johnson at quarterback for their game against the Dallas Cowboys on Christmas Day, ruling out Marcus Mariota because of a quad injury.
Johnson will make his 10th career start Thursday and first since Week 9 of the 2021 season when he played for the Baltimore Ravens. His lone win as a starter came when he played for Washington in 2018 and was signed late in the season after two other quarterbacks (Alex Smith and Colt McCoy) were hurt.
Washington signed veteran Jeff Driskel off the Arizona Cardinals’ practice squad and will make him the No. 2 quarterback Thursday, coach Dan Quinn said Wednesday. Sam Hartman will be promoted off the Commanders’ practice squad and serve as the emergency third quarterback.
Johnson will be without one of his main pass protectors as left tackle Laremy Tunsil was ruled out because of an oblique injury.
As for Johnson, Quinn said he has “lots of versatility” and “plenty of experience.” Johnson, 39, has spent time with 14 franchises during his 10-year career. He also has played in the XFL, UFL and AAF.
Johnson said his career arc has been a unique experience “but it’s one I don’t take for granted.”
However, he said, “It’s a stressful journey, not one I would wish on anybody. I’m embracing 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 to the Philadelphia Eagles. Mariota injured a quad and his right hand, which required six stitches during the game. Quinn said that Mariota was more bothered by the quad and that it’s uncertain whether he’ll be available to play in the season finale in Week 18.
Washington led 10-7 when Mariota exited against Philadelphia. Johnson completed 5 of 9 passes for 43 yards and an interception.
In 2021, playing for the New York Jets, Johnson threw for 317 yards and three touchdowns in a 45-30 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. His lone win occurred in Week 15 of the 2018 season for Washington.
Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury said playing for so many teams allows Johnson to be a quick study, though he has been with Washington all season.
“All those things have allowed him to play with a really calm mind,” Kingsbury said. “He’s a very accurate player, and the ball tends to go to the right spot when he is in there.”
