The Commanders’ quarterback question has a confirmed answer for Sunday: Jayden Daniels will start against the New York Giants after missing two games with a dislocated left elbow.
Coach Dan Quinn confirmed the decision Friday. Daniels practiced fully throughout the week and is expected to wear a brace on his left arm to stabilize the non-throwing elbow. Offensive coordinator David Blough said Daniels would have no limitations, though the brace will remain part of his equipment as he returns.
Daniels was injured in Washington’s Week 2 loss to Dallas and sat out the next two games, including last Sunday’s 30-13 defeat to Indianapolis in London. Backup Marcus Mariota sprained his MCL in that loss, and rookie Athan Kaliakmanis finished the game. Daniels’ return restores Washington’s regular starter after the team fell to 1-3.
The comeback does not mean the offense will be at full strength. Stefon Diggs has been ruled out with a hamstring injury, and Terry McLaurin is questionable with the same issue. Washington’s final injury report leaves McLaurin’s availability unresolved heading into the divisional matchup.
The Giants arrive at 3-1 and atop the NFC East. Daniels had 260 passing yards and three touchdowns across his first two games this season, along with 100 rushing yards. His mobility is a key part of his game, making his return in a protective brace a natural point of attention, even with the coordinator saying there will be no playing-time restriction.
Sunday will be the first game action since the elbow injury for Daniels, who also dislocated the same elbow last season. Washington gets its starter back, but the short-handed receiving group and the brace will keep questions around his return in focus against a division-leading opponent.
