Mariota injured early as Commanders turn to 7th-round rookie at QB

LONDON -- Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota left Sunday's game against the Indianapolis Colts with a knee injury that he suffered on the second series of the game. Mariota was replaced by rookie seventh-round pick Athan Kaliakmanis, who was playing his first NFL snaps. The injury was even more damaging because Mariota was playing in place of Commanders franchise quarterback Jayden Daniels, who missed his second consecutive game because of a dislocated left elbow. Mariota's right knee appeared to bend as he was sacked by defensive tackle Adetomiwa Adebawore on third-and-goal from the 6-yard line. Mariota did walk on his own into the locker room after being examined in the medical tent. Washington was already without top receiver Terry McLaurin (hamstring), who did not play after getting hurt in practice Friday. The Commanders also were without starting right guard Sam Cosmi for a second game. Mariota led Washington to a 33-31 win over the Seattle Seahawks last week, throwing for 183 yards and three touchdowns. He threw for 46 yards and had a 35-yard run on a zone read keeper Sunday to set up a field goal. Mariota is in his third season with Washington and has started 10 games.