Athan Kaliakmanis competes for backup role with Washington Commanders
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 17, 2026, 3:00 PM
Last updated Aug 17, 2026
Athan Kaliakmanis is vying for a spot as a backup quarterback on the Washington Commanders. After being drafted in the seventh round, he made his NFL debut on August 14, 2026, against the Miami Dolphins. With Marcus Mariota sidelined due to a sprained MCL, Kaliakmanis has an opportunity to showcase his skills throughout the remainder of the preseason. He completed 6 of 10 passes for 87 yards in his debut. Head coach Dan Quinn praised Kaliakmanis for his command and composure during critical game moments, highlighting his potential to contribute as a quarterback.
- •Kaliakmanis was drafted by the Commanders after an impressive pre-draft visit.
- •He passed for 5,820 yards and 38 touchdowns at Rutgers.
- •Kaliakmanis is competing with Sam Hartman for quarterback duties.
- •Marcus Mariota is expected to miss the rest of the preseason.
- •Quinn noted Kaliakmanis's effective game management skills.
- 3:00 PMYahoo Sports — Former Rutgers QB Battling For Role At The NFL Level
"Athan Kaliakmanis has a chance to win a job this preseason.
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