Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota is set to miss their preseason opener after picking up a ‘mild lower leg strain’.

The news comes as a major blow to head coach Dan Quinn, who also confirmed that starting QB Jayden Daniels will not feature in Friday’s game against the Patriots.

Quinn revealed that the level of concern over Mariota’s injury is ‘low’ but went on to rule him out of the exhibition game, ahead of the new season. 

However, there are hopes that Mariota could be available for their second preseason game, which falls on August 18th and will see the Commanders take on the Bengals. 

With both Mariota and Daniels out of action for Friday’s game, one of Josh Johnson and Sam Hartman will get a chance on the day. 

Meanwhile, the Commanders are still dealing with the bombshell trade request submitted by star wide receiver Terry McLaurin last week. 

Washington Commanders star Marcus Mariota is set to miss their preseason opener

The backup quarterback picked up a ‘mild lower leg strain’, according to head coach Dan Quinn

On Thursday, McLaurin requested a trade away from the nation’s capital despite being one of the best players on the team amid contract negotiations. 

McLaurin wants a sizable raise on his $16million annual salary and to be paid among the best wide receivers in the NFL. 

Commanders general manager Adam Peters has to balance that with keeping everyone else happy on the team. Quinn spoke on the current state of affairs on Saturday morning.  

‘(Terry) let me know that (requesting a trade) was happening, too. So I definitely appreciate that. We love Terry. Really glad he’s here. Hopefully he’s out practicing soon,’ Quinn said. 

‘We also understand there’s the business side of this thing. Adam and his side and Terry and his reps are working it through just kind of stay in that space. We recognize both are happening. I’m really glad (Terry’s) here. I love coaching him. Somebody asked me if it is a distraction. It is not.’

The Commanders have stated they have no interest in trading him despite receiving several inquiries.