Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels expected to miss several weeks after elbow injury
Jayden Daniels dislocated his non-throwing elbow in Week 2 and will miss multiple games, with backup Marcus Mariota slated to start while the team evaluates his recovery and possible future surgery.
Washington quarterback Jayden Daniels suffered a dislocation of his left elbow, the arm he does not throw with, during the second week of the season. The injury mirrors one he sustained last year that ended his campaign. Medical staff performed X-rays that showed no fracture, but further testing is scheduled to determine the recovery timeline. Daniels was not placed on injured reserve and will not undergo immediate surgery, though doctors are gathering multiple opinions about his long-term outlook.
Team officials indicated the goal is to return Daniels to play as soon as safely possible, hoping to limit his absence to fewer than four games. In the meantime, veteran backup Marcus Mariota will start, providing continuity for the offense. The Commanders have already ruled Daniels out for the Week 3 matchup against Seattle and consider his participation in the Week 4 game in London unlikely.
Daniels had thrown for 96 yards and a touchdown before the injury and was effective in the fourth quarter, completing 9 of 11 passes for 99 yards and two scores. The injury occurred when he fell on a botched snap and braced himself with his left arm. The team expects him to wear a brace for the remainder of the season to stabilize the joint.
The situation follows a broader concern about the Commanders' offensive line performance, which has struggled in recent weeks. The franchise added free-agent tackle DJ Humphries after losing left tackle Laremy Tunsil to a triceps injury earlier in the offseason.