Drake Maye: What happened to Jayden Daniels? Injury update, return timeline for Commanders QB
Jayden Daniels
As the Washington Commanders face off against the Denver Broncos in Week 13’s “Sunday Night Football” matchup, one key player is notably absent from the lineup: quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Daniels, the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year, suffered a dislocated left elbow during the closing moments of Washington’s Week 9 defeat to the Seattle Seahawks. The injury, though alarming in appearance, did not result in fractures or ligament damage—giving hope that Daniels could return later in the 2025 season rather than missing it entirely.
Since the injury, Daniels has been sidelined for two games and will now miss his third in Week 13. If he does make it back this season, it will likely only be for the final five games of the regular season.
Daniels’ Current Status
As of late November, Daniels has been participating in team practices, but only in a limited, non-contact capacity. While he has expressed his eagerness to get back on the field, the Commanders must balance his desire to play with practical considerations, especially given the team’s 3-8 record through 12 weeks.
“If I’m healthy, and I’m ready to go, I want to be out there,” Daniels told reporters on November 25. Despite his determination, the Commanders may hesitate to rush him back for games that have little impact on playoff positioning, as the team is effectively eliminated from postseason contention. Protecting Daniels from further injury is a priority, given the potential long-term impact on both his career and the franchise.
What Fans Can Expect
Daniels will not suit up for “Sunday Night Football” against the Broncos. As for the upcoming Week 14 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings, his status remains uncertain. The team is closely monitoring his progress, and any decision regarding his return will hinge on both his health and the coaching staff’s assessment of whether he can safely play without risking another injury.
For Commanders fans, the hope is that Daniels can rejoin the roster for the final stretch of the season. A healthy Daniels could bring renewed energy to the team and provide a glimpse of what the franchise could look like heading into 2026.
Until then, the Commanders will rely on backup quarterbacks to navigate the remaining games. While it’s a challenging period for the team, Daniels’ eventual return could still serve as a bright spot in an otherwise difficult season.
FAQ
Q: What injury did Jayden Daniels sustain?
A: Daniels dislocated his left elbow in Week 9 against the Seattle Seahawks. Thankfully, there was no fracture or ligament damage.
Q: How many games has Daniels missed so far?
A: Daniels has missed two games and will miss his third in Week 13.
Q: When could Daniels return?
A: If healthy, Daniels could return in the final five games of the 2025 regular season, but his Week 14 status is still uncertain.
Q: Is Daniels cleared for contact?
A: Not yet. He has been practicing in a limited, non-contact role.
Q: Will Daniels play in meaningless games?
A: The Commanders may avoid risking him in games that have little impact on the team’s playoff chances.