Commanders depth chart: Josh Johnson named Week 17 starter vs Cowboys as Marcus Mariota ruled out, Terry McLaurin finally gets the spotlight

The Commanders depth chart features Josh Johnson as the unlikely starter for Washington’s Christmas Day battle against Dallas in Week 17. With both Jayden Daniels and Marcus Mariota sidelined by injuries, the 39-year-old Johnson steps into the spotlight for his first NFL start in this NFC East rivalry matchup.

Commanders Depth Chart Impacted by Injury Crisis

The Washington Commanders find themselves in quarterback chaos heading into the final stretch of the regular season. Josh Johnson, a journeyman signal-caller who has bounced around the league for years, takes over the reins after both primary options fell to injury.

Head Coach Dan Quinn confirmed Wednesday that Johnson will get the start against Dallas. Marcus Mariota suffered a quadriceps injury that required six stitches to his throwing hand during Washington’s home loss to Philadelphia. This leaves the third-string QB as the only healthy option under center for a team desperate to salvage its season.

The situation highlights how injury-ravaged the Commanders have become this season, forcing unusual lineups across the roster.

Terry McLaurin Leading Receiving Corps

Terry McLaurin stands as the undisputed leader of the Commanders receiving depth chart with 462 receiving yards and 3 touchdowns through 16 games. The Pro Bowl-caliber receiver has been one of the few bright spots for Washington’s struggling offense.

Deebo Samuel provides the second receiving option in the depth chart, while Chris Moore rounds out the trio of pass catchers. McLaurin’s consistency and production give Johnson at least one reliable target to work with on Christmas Day.

Despite the offensive limitations, McLaurin caught 3 of 4 targets for 53 yards in a recent matchup and continues to perform at a high level despite the team’s struggles.

Cowboys-Commanders Rivalry Context

Factor	Dallas Cowboys	Washington Commanders
Head to Head Results	80 wins (all-time series)	49 wins (all-time series)
2025 Meeting	Won 44-22 in Week 7	Lost 44-22 in Week 7
Playoff Implications	Already eliminated from playoffs	Already eliminated from playoffs
QB Starting	Dak Prescott (established starter)	Josh Johnson (third-string emergency)

The Cowboys-Commanders rivalry is one of the most storied in NFL history, with the teams meeting 131 times (including playoffs). Dallas holds a commanding advantage with 80 victories compared to Washington’s 49 wins.

When these teams met in Week 7, the Cowboys dominated with a 44-22 victory, featuring CeeDee Lamb’s 74-yard touchdown and a pick-six from DaRon Bland. Both teams now face meaningless football with playoff hopes completely done, raising questions about effort and motivation heading into Christmas.

Johnson’s Path to Unexpected Starting Role

Josh Johnson’s journey to Week 17 starter is one of unexpected circumstance rather than performance competition. The 39-year-old quarterback has primarily served as a reserve throughout his professional career, bouncing between multiple teams.

Laremy Tunsil, Washington’s left tackle, is also ruled out with an oblique injury, leaving Johnson vulnerable in the pocket. Jeff Driskel re-signed with Washington on Monday and serves as the backup, providing minimal experience as a contingency plan.

“The Commanders are onto their third quarterback option with injuries decimating the position group.”

— Dan Quinn, Head Coach, Washington Commanders

What Does Week 17 Mean for Both Teams’ Offseasons?

Both the Cowboys and Commanders are mathematically eliminated from playoff contention heading into Christmas, fundamentally changing the meaning of this division matchup. This game represents nothing more than a final tune-up before each organization begins its offseason evaluation.

Dallas must evaluate Dak Prescott’s future and determine if the current roster construction can compete in the NFC East. Washington faces bigger questions about Jayden Daniels‘ development and whether its front office has properly surrounded him with weapons. Josh Johnson’s appearance is nothing more than emergency filler in a meaningless week.

The Commanders depth chart reflects a season that deteriorated dramatically, with injuries and ineffective quarterback play combining to sink playoff hopes.