Who Should I Start? Marcus Mariota or Justin Herbert

Saturday, September 7, 3:32 PM

The Washington Commanders have placed quarterback Marcus Mariota (chest) on injured reserve and have signed quarterback Sam Hartman from their practice squad. Mariota, who sustained a chest injury during Wednesday's practice, will be sidelined until at least early October. Washington had signed Mariota to a one-year, $6 million contract before drafting Jayden Daniels with their second-round pick. Mariota, a former No. 2 overall pick in 2015, had agreed to either mentor or start as needed for the team. This marks Mariota's first season with the Commanders after previous stints with the Tennessee Titans, Las Vegas Raiders, Atlanta Falcons, and Philadelphia Eagles. The rookie from Notre Dame will step in as the third-string quarterback behind Daniels, the starter, and Jeff Driskel, the new backup, for the start of the season.

Friday, September 6, 6:30 PM

Los Angeles Chargers quarterback Justin Herbert (plantar fascia) is off the injury report and cleared to play in Sunday's opener against the Las Vegas Raiders. Despite being listed on the injury report earlier this week due to a foot issue, Herbert has recovered and is set for action. He mentioned that he's not using any special footwear or insoles for support and that no specific play or moment triggered the injury. With a revamped offense featuring new starters at wide receiver, tight end, and running back, Herbert's leadership will be crucial this season. Although he should be at close to full strength, the Chargers' new emphasis on the running game and the absence of DJ Chark make it wise to consider other options for starting quarterback this week. In Chark's absence, the team will rely on wide receivers Joshua Palmer, Quentin Johnston, and Ladd McConkey.