Commanders' Daniels Nears Week 5 Return As Mariota Deals With MCL Sprain
Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels is trending toward returning in Week 5 after missing two games with a dislocated left elbow, and coach Dan Quinn said he will be a full practice participant. Backup Marcus Mariota has a sprained MCL and will not go on injured reserve for now, suggesting he could miss fewer than four games. Washington also worked out free-agent quarterback Jack Plummer, though no signing is planned at this time.
Daniels missed two straight games with a dislocated left elbow. Coach Dan Quinn said Daniels will practice fully, putting him on track to face the Giants. Daniels hurt the same elbow last November, missed three games, aggravated it in Week 14, and was shut down for the season once Washington was out of contention.
Mariota has a sprained MCL, his second since the preseason. He will not go on injured reserve now, suggesting he could miss fewer than four games. With a Week 7 bye, an IR move would sideline him until at least Week 10. Washington also worked out free agent Jack Plummer but has no immediate signing planned.
Washington’s quarterback situation could affect fans, teammates, and the team’s competitive outlook. Daniels’s possible return may stabilize the offense and give supporters hope, while Mariota’s knee issue could test the roster’s depth. If Daniels is limited or re-injures the elbow, the Commanders may lean on inexperienced passers, which could shape game results and fan engagement in the coming weeks.