Marcus Mariota, QB: Mariota, 30, agreed to a one-year with a base value of $6 million, which is worth up to $10 million, one person with knowledge of the terms said. His presence gives Washington a veteran who can help mentor a young quarterback and potentially step in and start if needed.

Washington explored the veteran quarterback market and had interest in Sam Darnold before he agreed to a one-year deal with the Minnesota Vikings, a person with knowledge of the team’s thinking said. After discussions with others, Washington landed on Mariota.

Mariota, the No. 2 pick in the 2015 draft, has been a journeyman since leaving the Tennessee Titans. He spent two years with the Las Vegas Raiders behind Derek Carr, one year with the Atlanta Falcons (mostly ahead of Desmond Ridder) and last year behind Jalen Hurts with the Philadelphia Eagles. In Washington, Mariota reunites with former Eagles offensive coordinator Brian Johnson, who is now the Commanders’ assistant head coach and offensive pass game coordinator.

Austin Ekeler, RB: Ekeler signed a two-year deal worth up to $11.43 million, two people with knowledge of the terms said, giving the team a dual-threat running back after it let Antonio Gibson leave for the New England Patriots.

Ekeler, 28, reunites with Commanders running backs coach Anthony Lynn, who was the Los Angeles Chargers’ coach when he made the roster as an undrafted rookie in 2017. Ekeler’s elusiveness out of the backfield and his pass-catching ability should help an offense that last season often appeared one-dimensional.