What's Jayden Daniels' Injury Status for Commanders-Broncos As QB Returns to Practice?

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels is returning to practice this week but is considered a "long shot" to suit up Sunday against the Denver Broncos, according to NFL Network's Ian Rapoport.

Daniels hasn't played since Week 9, as he suffered a dislocated elbow while getting sacked in the fourth quarter of Washington's 38-14 loss to the Seattle Seahawks on Nov. 2.

ESPN's Dan Graziano and Jeremy Fowler previously reported that the Commanders still planned to bring back Daniels before the end of the 2025 season, but shutting him down for the remainder of the year was also a possibility.

The reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year has struggled with availability throughout his sophomore season, missing three of Washington's first eight games of the year due to hamstring and knee issues.

Daniels has remained effective when healthy, though.

In six starts, he's completed 62.5 percent of his throws for 1,184 yards and eight touchdowns compared to just two interceptions. Daniels has also continued to make plays with his legs, rushing for 262 yards and two scores while averaging 4.9 yards per carry.

Still, his overall production hasn't matched his stellar rookie season in which he helped lead the Commanders to a 12-5 record as well as an appearance in the NFC Championship Game.

Daniels threw for 3,568 yards and amassed 31 total touchdowns in 2024, posting a 69.0 completion percentage. He was also picked off just nine times.

With the Commanders currently sitting at 3-8 on the season, Marcus Mariota will continue to operate as their starter while Daniels is sidelined.