NFLSep 30
Jayden Daniels Returns to Practice, but Colts Start Remains Uncertain
Washington will evaluate Daniels’ elbow strength and mobility before deciding whether he can return Sunday, with Marcus Mariota ready to start again.
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Limited return in England
Jayden Daniels was back on the practice field Wednesday in Hertfordshire, England, giving the Washington Commanders an encouraging development without settling their quarterback decision against the Colts. Daniels was limited during a 60-minute jog-through after Washington arrived earlier in the morning. He dislocated his left elbow in the Week 2 loss at Dallas, and coach Dan Quinn still needs to see more before clearing him to play Sunday. Wearing a black elbow brace that he will use for the remainder of the season, Daniels took snaps during warm-ups and completed footwork drills with throws. His workload is expected to increase as the week continues.
Medical evaluation will guide decision
Quinn indicated that elbow function, strength and pain tolerance will shape the decision, with medical guidance central to Washington’s approach. The Commanders have experience managing the injury. Daniels dislocated the same elbow in Week 9 last season, aggravated it after returning five weeks later and was shut down for the final four games of 2025. Specialists consulted after his latest injury advised that he could return without surgery, though an operation remains a possibility. Washington is optimistic about a return against either Indianapolis or the New York Giants the following week. If Daniels cannot play Sunday, Marcus Mariota will start again after helping the Commanders beat Seattle and move to 1-2.
Other injuries complicate preparations
Safety Nick Cross, who has an internal injury, and guard Sam Cosmi, who has a concussion, have been ruled out and did not travel to England. Linebacker Frankie Luvu and tight end Chig Okonkwo are expected to practice despite groin and hamstring injuries, respectively, but their availability remains uncertain. Running back Rachaad White’s shoulder injury required further treatment and was set to keep him out Wednesday. Washington signed veteran running back Austin Ekeler earlier in the week.
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