Get ready for a thrilling NFL comeback story that’s bound to spark debate! Josh Johnson, the 39-year-old journeyman quarterback, is set to make his first NFL start since 2021—and this time, he’s leading the Washington Commanders against their fierce rivals, the Dallas Cowboys, on Christmas Day. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this a desperate move by the Commanders, or a calculated gamble on a player with a wealth of experience? Let’s dive in.
ESPN’s John Keim, a seasoned journalist who’s covered the Commanders since 1994, breaks down the details. Johnson steps in after Marcus Mariota was ruled out with a quad injury—a setback that’s left fans wondering about the team’s depth at quarterback. This will mark Johnson’s 10th career start, a rarity for a player who’s spent time with 14 franchises over a decade, not to mention stints in the XFL, UFL, and AAF. His last start? Week 9 of the 2021 season with the Baltimore Ravens. And his lone NFL win? A 2018 victory with Washington, where he was signed mid-season after injuries sidelined Alex Smith and Colt McCoy. Talk about a rollercoaster career!
But this is the part most people miss: Johnson’s versatility and experience have earned him praise from Commanders coach Dan Quinn, who highlights his ability to adapt under pressure. Yet, Johnson himself admits, ‘It’s a stressful journey, not one I would wish on anybody.’ Still, he’s embracing the opportunity with gratitude, aiming to be a stabilizing force for the team. And here’s a bold question: Could Johnson’s unique path make him the underdog hero Washington needs?
Adding to the drama, left tackle Laremy Tunsil, one of Johnson’s key protectors, is unlikely to play due to an oblique injury. Meanwhile, the Commanders have signed veteran Jeff Driskel as the No. 2 quarterback and Sam Hartman as the emergency third option. It’s a patchwork solution, but one that underscores the team’s determination to compete.
Johnson’s recent performance against the Philadelphia Eagles offers a mixed bag: he completed 5 of 9 passes for 43 yards but threw an interception. Still, offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury believes Johnson’s experience across multiple teams has honed his ability to stay calm under pressure. ‘He’s a very accurate player,’ Kingsbury notes, ‘and the ball tends to go to the right spot when he’s in there.’
So, here’s the big question: Can Josh Johnson defy the odds and lead the Commanders to victory, or is this just another chapter in his long, winding career? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate you won’t want to miss!
