Jayden Daniels might be inching closer to a return - and not a moment too soon for a Washington Commanders team that’s desperately searching for a spark.
The rookie quarterback missed Sunday night’s overtime loss to the Denver Broncos with a dislocated elbow, but signs are pointing toward a potential comeback in Week 14. Daniels was a limited participant in practice leading up to Week 13, and he’s made it clear: if he’s healthy, he wants to be out there.
And while Washington’s playoff hopes are long gone after seven straight losses, getting Daniels back on the field would be about more than just salvaging the season. This is about development.
About getting your young quarterback live reps, even in a lost year. About seeing what you’ve got as you look ahead to 2026.
According to NFL insider Ian Rapoport, Daniels has a legitimate shot to return this week - though nothing is set in stone. “He does have a chance to get cleared four weeks from the injury,” Rapoport reported.
“Which would be great news for Washington.” ESPN’s Adam Schefter echoed that sentiment, though both noted Daniels hasn’t yet been cleared for contact.
That’s the final hurdle. Until then, his status for Week 14 remains up in the air.
The Insiders on @NFLGameDay Morning with @MikeGarafolo and @TomPelissero: #Commanders QB Jayden Daniels is out today but has a chance next week; #Giants QB Jaxson Dart returns from a concussion; The #Vikings did try to retain Sam Darnold before he left for Seattle. pic.twitter.com/lNbaeWJQkn
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 30, 2025
If Daniels can’t go, Marcus Mariota would be in line for another start. The veteran has filled in during Daniels’ absence, but the results haven’t been pretty. Washington is just 1-5 in games Mariota has started this season, compared to 2-4 with Daniels under center.
Still, there’s cautious optimism around the team - and even from the oddsmakers. Washington opened as 1.5-point underdogs in their upcoming matchup, but the line has since swung in their favor, with the Commanders now listed as 1.5-point favorites. That shift could be a reflection of Daniels’ possible return, but it also speaks to the state of their opponent: the Minnesota Vikings.
Commanders QB Jayden Daniels practiced all week in a limited capacity, but has yet to be cleared for contact from his dislocated elbow injury, and it remains unclear whether he will play next Sunday against Minnesota.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 30, 2025
Daniels has said that, if he’s healthy, he would like to… pic.twitter.com/LXQjVPJY8c
Minnesota is coming off a shutout loss in Week 13, with Max Brosmer starting at quarterback. J.J.
McCarthy remains in concussion protocol, leaving the Vikings with uncertainty at the most important position on the field. If Daniels does suit up, Washington could enter the game as clear favorites.
Through his first six starts, Daniels has shown flashes of the dynamic playmaker Washington hoped he’d be. He’s completed 62.5 percent of his passes for 1,184 yards, with eight touchdowns to just two interceptions. He’s also added 262 rushing yards and two scores on the ground - a dual-threat presence that gives this offense a different dimension.
But beyond the numbers, it’s the poise, the mobility, and the ability to extend plays that have stood out. He’s made rookie mistakes, sure, but he’s also shown real growth. And with Washington’s season spiraling, getting him back under center isn’t just about winning games - it’s about building for the future.
If Daniels can ramp up to full practice this week, that would be a strong indicator he’s trending toward playing. And if he does take the field on Sunday, it won’t just be a boost for Washington’s offense - it’ll be a much-needed shot of hope for a franchise in transition.