The Washington Commanders might have to face the Las Vegas Raiders without star quarterback Jayden Daniels. Daniels sat out practice the past two days with a knee sprain suffered in Week 2 against the Green Bay Packers, leaving his availability for Sunday’s game in question.
Daniels’ Injury Status Ahead of Raiders Game
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Head coach Dan Quinn confirmed Wednesday that Daniels would not practice until at least Friday. While this cautious approach raises concerns, it doesn’t necessarily rule him out for the Raiders matchup.
“Jayden had a good rehab session day,” Quinn said. “He also threw out on the field. He won’t practice today, and then as we get into Friday, I’ll give you an assessment of where we’re at after we go through practice on Friday.”
Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury added that Daniels is “preparing mentally” for the game while backup Marcus Mariota takes the live reps. If Daniels cannot suit up, Mariota would start for the Commanders against the Raiders.
Signs of Caution
NFL insider Adam Schefter noted that the Commanders’ messaging suggests Daniels could miss Sunday’s game.
“The tone the Commanders are using suggests that Jayden Daniels, right now, might have a tough time being out there on Sunday,” Schefter said. “They said the soonest he would practice would be Friday. I don’t think it would be a surprise if Dan Quinn ruled out Jayden Daniels on Friday, and if Daniels can’t go, then Marcus Mariota would start Sunday against the Raiders.”
Meanwhile, Ian Rapoport reported that Daniels looked good in rehab, which is encouraging for his eventual return. “Commanders coach Dan Quinn said that while Jayden Daniels had a good rehab session for his knee sprain, he won’t practice until Friday at the earliest. Another sign that Marcus Mariota could very well be starting,” Rapoport noted.
Jayden Daniels’ Career Context
Daniels has played in all 17 games last season, so missing a game against the Raiders would mark the first absence of his NFL career. In two games this season, Daniels has completed 59.7% of his passes for 433 yards and three touchdowns, adding 85 rushing yards on 18 carries. He was also the 2024 Offensive Rookie of the Year and led Washington to the NFC Championship game.
Next Steps for the Commanders
The Commanders are prioritizing Daniels’ health and ensuring he can be “absolutely himself” before returning to action. The final decision on his availability for the Raiders game will likely come after Friday’s practice.
If Daniels is held out, Marcus Mariota will step in as the starter. Kickoff against the Las Vegas Raiders is scheduled for 1 p.m. ET, with the game airing live on FOX.