Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels is expected to return from a dislocated left elbow and start Sunday’s Week 5 game against the New York Giants. Head coach Dan Quinn confirmed the plan following a full practice week trajectory, providing a major boost as the team sits at a 1-3 start.
When quarterback Jayden Daniels suffered another dislocated elbow during Week 2, Washington Commanders supporters felt an unsettling sense of déjà vu. But those fears have eased as the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year appears on schedule to return in Week 5.
Dan Quinn Outlines Practice Plan for Sunday Kickoff
Head coach Dan Quinn told reporters that the team’s primary objective for the week was getting their starting quarterback completely ready for game action against a divisional opponent. Speaking to reporters on Monday, head coach Dan Quinn stated that the franchise anticipates Jayden Daniels will be back from his dislocated left elbow for this weekend’s matchup.
“The goal is for him to have a full week of practice, a full week and start on Sunday,” Quinn said.
Dan Quinn, Washington Commanders Head Coach via Bleacher Report
Quinn added that Daniels had wanted to play during the team’s Week 4 matchup against the Indianapolis Colts in London, but management opted to play it cautious. While recovering, Daniels traveled with the squad overseas and managed limited participation sessions throughout the week.
Backup Marcus Mariota Injury Forces Roster Pressure
The urgency for Daniels to step back under center increased after backup quarterback Marcus Mariota suffered an injury during the London contest. NFL Network insider Mike Garafolo provided clarity on the situation during an appearance on Good Morning Football
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“Marcus Mariota had an MCL injury that he suffered the other day. Testing revealed that is the case with him, so it’s looking like he is going to miss some time,” Garafolo said on Tuesday via Good Morning Football.
Mike Garafolo, NFL Network via Clutchpoints
Mariota’s absence forced rookie seventh-round pick Athan Kaliakmanis into action during the 30-13 loss to Indianapolis. Although Kaliakmanis connected on a few deep attempts, he also threw an interception and struggled against the Colts defense. With Mariota sidelined for multiple weeks, the Commanders have not signed another quarterback, signaling high internal confidence in Daniels’ impending return.
New Elbow Brace Protects Daniels Before Giants Game
Re-entering the lineup brings familiar health questions. Daniels dealt with the identical elbow issue last year and aggravated it immediately upon returning to action. To mitigate that risk, ESPN reporter John Keim noted that the quarterback is expected to wear a different brace that keeps his elbow slightly bent to prevent another dislocation.
At 1-3, Washington urgently needs a win when they host the New York Giants at 1 p.m. ET on October 11 at Northwest Stadium. A slip against their divisional rival could cause the season to spiral, especially given a daunting subsequent stretch featuring games against the San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Los Angeles Rams.
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