NFLSep 26
Jayden Daniels’ elbow injury puts Commanders’ depth under pressure
Daniels will avoid surgery and injured reserve, but his latest setback leaves Washington leaning on Marcus Mariota while searching for answers elsewhere.
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Encouraging update, uncertain return
Jayden Daniels will not need surgery or a stay on injured reserve after dislocating his left elbow against Dallas, according to Washington general manager Adam Peters. The update followed consultations with specialists, but his return remains a medical decision. Marcus Mariota will start Sunday’s home opener against the defending Super Bowl champion Seattle Seahawks, with the Commanders trying to recover from an 0-2 start. Before getting hurt on the final play of the opening half, Daniels had rushed for 69 yards and passed for 96 yards and a touchdown. It was a reminder of the explosive ability that earned him NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year honors in 2024.
Durability remains the concern
The latest setback adds to an increasingly troubling injury history. Daniels missed 10 games with three different injuries in 2025, when Washington finished 5-12. He has now dislocated his left elbow twice in his past four games and reinjured it in another. A brace is expected when he returns, although he also wore one when he reinjured the elbow last season while attempting a tackle after an interception. Daniels’ talent and preparation remain reasons for confidence. The immediate uncertainty is whether he can stay on the field long enough to turn those qualities into sustained progress.
Supporting cast must respond
Washington’s challenge extends beyond its backup quarterback. The defense has conceded seven touchdowns without producing a takeaway through two games, and coverage communication remains a problem under new coordinator Daronte Jones. The offensive line is also depleted. Left tackle Laremy Tunsil is already absent, while right guard Sam Cosmi is in concussion protocol. Those weaknesses leave little margin for Mariota. After losing 12 of their past 14 games dating to last season, the Commanders need improvement around the quarterback position rather than relying on Daniels’ eventual return to solve everything.
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