Commanders QB Josh Johnson to make first NFL start since 2021

The Washington Commanders will start Josh Johnson at quarterback for their game against the Dallas Cowboys on Christmas Day, ruling out Marcus Mariota with a quad injury.

Johnson will make his 10th career start on Thursday and first since Week 9 of the 2021 season, when he played for the Baltimore Ravens. His only 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 injured.

Washington signed veteran Jeff Driskel from the Arizona Cardinals’ practice squad and will make him the No. 2 quarterback Thursday, coach Dan Quinn said Wednesday. Sam Hartman will be promoted to the Commanders practice squad and serve as an emergency third quarterback.

Johnson will be without one of his key pass protectors, with left tackle Laremy Tunsil ruled out with an oblique injury.

As for Johnson, Quinn said he has “a lot of versatility” and “a lot of experience.” Johnson, 39, has spent time with 14 franchises during his 10-year career. He 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 for granted.”

However, he said: “It’s a stressful journey, which I wouldn’t wish on anyone. I accept it with gratitude and try 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 his quadriceps and right hand, requiring six stitches during the match. Quinn said Mariota was more bothered by the quad and was uncertain whether he would be available to play in the season finale in Week 18.

Washington led 10-7 when Mariota came out 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 only win came in Week 15 of the 2018 season for Washington.

Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury said playing for so many teams allows Johnson to study quickly, even though he has been with Washington all season.

“All those things allowed him to play with a really calm mind,” Kingsbury said. “He’s a very precise player and the ball tends to go to the right place when he’s in there.”