In a tough mid‑season setback for the Washington Commanders, quarterback Jayden Daniels exited Sunday night’s game after sustaining a left‑elbow injury. The incident occurred late in the fourth quarter when Daniels attempted a read‑option play and landed awkwardly on his arm, prompting immediate concern and prompting trainer intervention. Despite the game already being heavily tilted against them, head coach Dan Quinn confirmed that Daniels remained the quarterback on the field until the end, signalling his status as the franchise QB.
Initial diagnostic and imaging results offer a somewhat mixed prognosis. Though the X‑rays returned negative for fractures, reports indicate that the injury is a dislocation of the left elbow. No MRI has yet been scheduled, which suggests medical staff are still assessing the full extent of damage. Team insiders posit that the injury may not be as grave as first feared, but the phrasing “several games” raises legitimate concerns about his availability for the near future.
For a Commanders squad sitting at 3‑6, the timing of the injury could not be worse. With a playoff push already compromised, the absence of Daniels forces Washington to lean on veteran backup Marcus Mariota. While Mariota has started in three games this season and posted mixed results, the leadership, chemistry and upside that Daniels brings remain absent. In turn, the team may opt against making external acquisitions, instead choosing internal continuity during this rough stretch.
The injury introduces a new layer of uncertainty into Washington’s season; not only must they compensate for the loss of their emerging quarterback, but they also face the challenge of maintaining competitiveness in a league where every game counts.