The Washington Commanders’ season took a disastrous turn Sunday night when quarterback Jayden Daniels suffered a gruesome-looking dislocated left elbow during a 38-14 loss to the Seattle Seahawks. While the initial scene sparked fears of a season-ending injury, the latest news offers a sliver of hope, even as the team’s immediate future hangs in the balance.
Nov 2, 2025; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) is helped off the field after an injury during the second half against the Seattle Seahawks at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images
The pivotal moment occurred in the fourth quarter. With Washington already trailing 38-7, Daniels scrambled toward the goal line before being tackled, landing awkwardly as his arm bent unnaturally. Medical staff rushed onto the field, placing his arm in an air cast as Seahawks linebacker Bobby Wagner offered a word of comfort before Daniels walked off.
Initially, the outlook was bleak. However, subsequent reports have brought some relief to the organization and its fans. While X-rays came back negative for any fractures, the team awaited an MRI to determine the full scope of the injury. Fortunately, the MRI revealed no significant ligament damage, a far better outcome than initially feared.
Before his exit, Daniels had completed 16 of 22 passes for 153 yards and one interception. Despite the lopsided score, his presence on the field late in the game drew scrutiny. Head coach Dan Quinn addressed the decision after the game. “In hindsight, not having him there would have made sense,” Quinn admitted, acknowledging the risk involved. While there is no official timetable for his return, reports suggest Daniels is expected to miss several games.
How Will the Commanders Handle a Growing Injury List?
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Nov 2, 2025; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) is helped off the field after an injury during the second half against the Seattle Seahawks at Northwest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Amber Searls-Imagn Images
The Commanders are dealing with a rash of injuries that extends beyond their starting quarterback. The team recently placed wideout Luke McCaffrey (shoulder) and cornerback Marshon Lattimore (knee) on injured reserve, ending their seasons. Additionally, linebacker Frankie Luvu faced a potential suspension for repeated hip-drop tackles. However, the penalty was ultimately reduced to a fine, making him available for the upcoming Week 10 game against the Detroit Lions.
This is the second time this season that the young quarterback has been sidelined, as he previously missed three games with hamstring and knee issues. In his absence, veteran Marcus Mariota, who started those contests, is expected to take over the starting role once again.
Now sitting at 3-6, Washington’s 2025-26 campaign has become a matter of survival. Daniels, just 24 years old, has demonstrated the poise of a seasoned veteran in the face of adversity, and his ability to bounce back will be a key storyline. For now, the team’s focus shifts to its backup options and finding the grit to stay competitive. As the Commanders prepare to face the Lions, supporters are left hoping for their rising star’s speedy recovery and for the team around him to step up in his absence.