Why the Commanders might shock everyone against the Chiefs
The Washington Commanders are expected to have a tough game against the Kansas City Chiefs, but things could be easier with the return of wide receivers Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel Sr.
Commanders head coach Dan Quinn explained how much impact they have on the field.
“They add a lot. I think in different ways and so much of their games are similar but different. In other words, where on some of the deep plays with Terry on play passes and over routes and things that are shots down the field where Deebo has some catch and run as well to it," Quinn said.
"So, they both run all of the routes in the system but just being in there and how they can make plays, it's definitely a big deal. That also affects other parts of the offense and running game and other things to go with it. So, matchups, yeah, I'm excited to get these guys back into the mix and they are too because missing and not being in it, it's hard. And so, they're excited.”
Commanders grateful for wide receiver return
Having McLaurin and Samuel back on the field will make quarterback Marcus Mariota's job a lot easier going into the game.
"Those guys are not only unbelievable football players, but they're great leaders," Mariota said.
"And when you go through these kind of adverse situations and you're kind of going and dealing with these valleys as a team, it's nice to kind of get a spark with those guys coming back out on the field. So, nice having them around. We'll hopefully continue to see as they trend towards the game, but for me, it's nice to throw to those guys for sure.”
McLaurin has been sidelined since Week 3 with a quad injury and Samuel missed the game against the Dallas Cowboys. Having a full offense against the Chiefs will give them a chance to compete with one of the best teams in the NFL.
Kickoff between the Commanders and Chiefs is scheduled for tomorrow at 8:15 p.m. ET. Fans can watch the game on ESPN or stream it on the ESPN app.
Marcus Mariota Shocks NFL by Pledging Entire First Salary to Washington Schools and Youth Programs
In a move that has stunned both fans and media, Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota made a promise that transcends the football field. As his first official act with the Commanders, Mariota announced that he will donate his entire first salary to schools and youth programs across Washington, D.C. The veteran quarterback, who joined the Commanders after stints with the Tennessee Titans and Atlanta Falcons, has already made a significant impact—this time off the field—with his pledge to give back to the community that welcomed him with open arms.
The gesture is both groundbreaking and heartwarming, signaling a shift in the landscape of modern athletes. In an era where athletes often face scrutiny over their off-field behavior, Mariota’s act of generosity is shining a spotlight on the positive power of professional sports. His statement, “Washington gave me this opportunity, now I’m giving back,” has resonated deeply, not only with Commanders fans but with communities nationwide.
A Remarkable Journey to the NFL
Marcus Mariota’s rise to professional football is a testament to hard work, resilience, and perseverance. Coming from a humble background, Mariota balanced academics, part-time jobs, and athletics throughout high school. His college career at the University of Oregon set the stage for his transition to the NFL, where he would go on to achieve success with the Tennessee Titans and later the Atlanta Falcons. What scouts didn’t only see in Mariota was talent, but a deep sense of responsibility and leadership—traits that align perfectly with the values upheld by the Washington Commanders.
Having already established himself as a dynamic and versatile quarterback in the league, Mariota’s decision to donate his first salary to Washington’s youth programs only further solidifies his reputation as a player with not only athletic potential but also the moral compass to match.
A Gesture That Resonates Beyond Football
What’s especially remarkable about Mariota’s pledge is that donating an entire salary is almost unheard of in professional sports. While many athletes support causes and foundations, to commit a full salary—likely hundreds of thousands of dollars—is a rare and selfless act. The donation will go toward underfunded schools, sports facilities, after-school programs, and mentorship opportunities for young Washingtonians. By doing so, Mariota is using his newfound platform to not only impact his team but also foster positive change in the community.
For Washington schools facing budget cuts, the money couldn’t come at a more crucial time. Administrators and community leaders have already expressed excitement about the possibilities for expanded athletic programs, tutoring services, and scholarships for students in need. Mariota’s donation is more than just a one-time act of kindness—it’s a signal to other athletes about the lasting impact they can have beyond the game.
Commanders Fans React with Pride
Unsurprisingly, the reaction from Commanders fans has been overwhelmingly positive. Social media was ablaze with praise for Mariota, with many fans expressing their pride in the veteran quarterback’s gesture. Some even declared him a role model, not only for aspiring athletes but for anyone looking to make a difference in their community. The act has also caught the attention of former players, who have echoed the sentiment that athletes have a responsibility to use their platform for good.
This kind of selflessness has reinforced the belief that the Washington Commanders are more than just a football team—they’re a community-oriented franchise built on integrity, leadership, and a commitment to giving back. For Mariota, this act sets the tone for what is sure to be a long and successful career both on and off the field.
The Future of Athlete Philanthropy
As for the future, this pledge may serve as a blueprint for the next generation of athletes. In an age where athletes are often seen as role models, Mariota is showing that true leadership goes beyond the field of play. He has already stated that he plans to establish a foundation that will continue supporting youth initiatives well beyond his rookie season.
For Mariota, it’s clear that success isn’t just about what happens on the field—it's about using that success to make a lasting difference in the world. His generosity has already made him a fan favorite, but it’s his commitment to creating positive change that will leave a lasting legacy.
Conclusion: A Veteran Who’s Already a Game-Changer
Marcus Mariota’s pledge to donate his entire first NFL salary to Washington schools and youth programs isn’t just a headline—it’s a movement. In a world where headlines are often dominated by controversy, Mariota is proving that sports can still inspire, unite, and uplift communities. His commitment to giving back, both now and in the future, reflects a powerful shift in the values of professional athletes. For the Washington Commanders, Mariota is already making an impact, not just in the locker room, but in the hearts of fans everywhere.
It’s safe to say that Marcus Mariota has already scored his first victory—not in the end zone, but in the eyes of those who believe in the power of compassion and responsibility.
Chiefs Trade Pitch Lands Them Elite Receiver For Hefty Price
The Kansas City Chiefs have had notorious struggles to start the season offensively in 2025.
Although they managed to get through the New York Giants on Sunday Night Football last weekend, fans have not been impressed with the way quarterback, Patrick Mahomes and head coach, Andy Reid have started the season.
Much of that is down to the team being down their top two wideouts; Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy; along with the expected decline of tight end, Travis Kelce, who remains a very productive but not elite-caliber TE in the NFL.
Chiefs Could Look To Add Another Receiving Threat
So a new trade suggestion has the team put all their chips into the middle and trade for one of the smoothest route-runners in football, Chris Olave. Since returning from a concussion that kept him out for over half the season in 2025, the former Ohio State man has been consistently delivering in what is an otherwise catastrophically misfiring Saints offense.
As a result, John Sigler of USA Today’s Saints Wire proposes that the team could offload their top receiver – who has just under two years left on his current rookie deal – in exchange for substantial draft compensation.
“Olave has a year left on his contract after the Saints picked up his option for 2026,” Sigler wrote on Friday, “so any team trading for him would be on the hook for his $15.5 million salary cap hit next season. He’s going to be seeking a multiyear contract extension worth twice that. Trading him now would give his new team time to see how he performs in their offense and decide whether to extend him.”
What Would The Chiefs Have To Give Up For Chris Olave?
“So what could the Saints get for him? Olave’s injury history is a major concern,” Sigler continued, “but not enough to discourage a playoff team or an offense with an established quarterback. One comparison might be AJ Brown, a former first-round pick who the Tennessee Titans traded for a package of first- and third-round picks (Nos. 18 and 101).”
Sigler compares Olave’s potential compensation to that of AJ Brown, who was moved for a mid-first round pick and a late third.
“Through his first three seasons Brown appeared in 43 games, catching 185 passes for 2,995 yards with 139 first downs and 24 touchdowns. In his first three years Olave has appeared in 39 games with 191 receptions for 2,565 yards, 127 first downs, and 10 touchdowns. Between Olave’s injury history and Brown’s greater utility as a scoring threat, the Saints shouldn’t expect as strong a return. A late first-round pick or an early second rounder could get it done.”
In terms of both impact on games, availability and danger to opposing defenses, you would be hard pressed to find someone who did not consider Brown to be superior to Olave. But there certainly is not a huge amount of difference between the pair. They are both first choice, WR1 types, yet neither would be considered – at least at this point – in the elite, top-5 tier of talents in the league, like Justin Jefferson or Ja’Marr Chase.
A first rounder is definitely a little steep to give up, but for a player who has a couple years left of under-market value contract price, and has been shown to perform well, even with very mediocre quarterbacking, it could well be a shot worth taking for the Chiefs.
