Washington Commanders Roster Moves: Marcus Mariota to IR; Sam Hartman signed from the practice squad

The Washington Commanders released WR Byron Pringle yesterday, and made several more roster moves today. Backup QB Marcus Mariota missed the final two preseason games with a groin injury. He then strained his pec, and was ruled out of the season opener against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers tomorrow. Mariota will now spend at least four games on injured reserve to start his one year in Washington. Sam Hartman was also signed from the practice squad. He’ll be the No. 3 QB behind Jayden Daniels and backup Jeff Driskel.

Washington also elevated two players from the practice squad for tomorrow’s game. Second-round pick Jer’Zhan Newton has been dealing with a soft-tissue injury in his foot, and was listed as doubtful. Washington elevated DT Sheldon Day, which likely means Newton won’t play in the first game of his rookie season. The Commanders also elevated veteran special teams player Nick Bellore. He spent the last five seasons with the Seattle Seahawks working with Washington’s new special teams coordinator Larry Izzo.