Which NFL quarterback is leading the league in deep passes?

Marcus Mariota, the quarterback for the Washington Commanders, is currently throwing passes of 10+ air yards at a 42.7% rate, the highest in the NFL.

How is the Commanders' offense performing this season?

The Commanders have lost five consecutive games, with their defense and running game struggling. However, their offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury is still pushing quarterback Marcus Mariota to attack downfield, aiming to loosen up defenses and spark the running game.

What challenges is Mariota facing with the Commanders' receiving corps?

The Commanders' wide receiver group has been plagued by injuries and difficulty getting open, forcing Mariota to rely more on tight end Zach Ertz and rookie receivers like Jaylin Lane. Even their top wideout, Treylon Burks, is currently sidelined with a broken finger.

Home / Sports / Mariota Defies Receiver Woes, Keeps Firing Downfield

Mariota Defies Receiver Woes, Keeps Firing Downfield

16 Nov

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Summary

Washington's Marcus Mariota leading NFL in 10+ yard passes
Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury not settling for short throws
Mariota's deep passing despite thin receiving corps

Mariota Defies Receiver Woes, Keeps Firing Downfield

As of November 16th, 2025, Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota is standing out for his aggressive downfield passing, even as his team has lost five consecutive games. Mariota is currently throwing passes of 10+ air yards at a 42.7% rate, the highest in the NFL.

This speaks to the offensive philosophy of coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, who is not content with short, check-down passes. Kingsbury is pushing Mariota to keep attacking downfield, attempting to move the chains and loosen up opposing defenses. This approach has helped the Commanders' running game, which led the league in yards per carry through the first five weeks.

However, Mariota's deep passing has had to overcome significant challenges. The Commanders' wide receiver group has struggled with injuries and difficulty getting open, forcing Mariota to rely on tight end Zach Ertz and rookie receivers like Jaylin Lane. Even star wideout Treylon Burks, who had a strong game last week, is now sidelined with a broken finger.