NFL rumors: 3 teams that should trade for Marcus Mariota

As mentioned earlier, several teams have called the Raiders about Mariota. But which organization is the most persistent on adding the former 2015 first-round draft pick? That one squad belongs in the NFC East.

According to former NFL general manager Michael Lombardi, the Washington Football Team is “extremely interested” in Mariota.

This past season, Washington managed to win the NFC East title with a 7-9 record and a rather lackluster offense. That is mostly due to the quarterback play. Former 2019 first-round selection Dwayne Haskins flamed out in Washington and was waived by the team altogether mid-season. Kyle Allen, former quarterback for head coach Ron Rivera during their time with the Carolina Panthers, suffered a season-ending ankle injury in Week 9. Alex Smith did not put up astronomical numbers on the stat-sheet, but played a game-manager role to help lead Washington to the playoffs.

Yes, Washington did sign Taylor Heineke to a two-year, $8.75 million contract extension after his impressive Wild Card Round performance against the eventual Super Bowl champion Tampa Bay Buccaneers. But can he do so for 16 games next year?

Washington would be wise to bring in an insurance policy in case the Heinicke experiment fails. Surrendering a mid-round draft pick for Mariota would be a wise investment for Washington, as they can save their first-rounder for a wide receiver or offensive lineman.