Few divisions in the NFL understand the value of a reliable backup quarterback quite like the NFC East—a division deeply rooted in success and championship history.
No other division has claimed more Super Bowl victories.
Together, the New York Giants, Dallas Cowboys, Philadelphia Eagles, and Washington Commanders have earned a combined 14 Super Bowl titles. Remarkably, three of those championships were secured with a backup quarterback stepping in as the starter. If you include the Cowboys’ 1971 title—when Roger Staubach didn’t start the season opener—the total rises to four.
One of those instances came in 1988 when Doug Williams, a backup at the time, led Washington to a Super Bowl win. Now, as the Commanders gear up for a potential title run in 2025, they’ve ensured they have a strong option behind center once again.
Marcus Mariota, the former No. 2 overall pick, may not be bound for Canton, but his experience and leadership made him a valuable acquisition for Washington.
“When you’re building a new team, it’s about creating competition and hitting every milestone,” head coach Dan Quinn said on The Rich Eisen Show. “We didn’t want to skip a single step in Jayden’s development. As the season progressed, the team matured—and he was leading that charge.”
With Jayden Daniels emerging as one of the league’s most promising young quarterbacks, having a capable veteran like Mariota behind him is crucial for the team’s long-term outlook.
And that depth might just be what brings the Commanders their next Super Bowl championship.
