Commanders QB Jayden Daniels Faces Uncertain Return From Elbow Injury

The Washington Commanders continue to struggle through a difficult 2025 season, and the injury status of quarterback Jayden Daniels adds another layer of uncertainty. Daniels, who has been sidelined with a dislocated elbow, is slated to return to practice in Week 13, though his participation in Sunday’s game against the Denver Broncos remains unlikely.

Washington’s record of 3-8 reflects the team’s struggles on both sides of the ball, and the absence of Daniels has been particularly costly. The Commanders have gone 1-4 in games without their starting quarterback, highlighting his importance to the team’s offensive rhythm and overall competitiveness.

Daniels’ recovery is being monitored carefully by the organization, balancing the need for his presence on the field with the long-term health of a promising young quarterback. With no playoff hopes this season, the team faces a strategic decision about how aggressively to push him back into action.

Former Commanders quarterback Robert Griffin III weighed in on the situation, comparing Daniels’ circumstances to his own time in Washington while urging caution. Griffin’s perspective emphasizes the unique challenges the organization faces when deciding whether to prioritize immediate play or player development.

1. Injury Update and Practice Plans

Daniels’ dislocated elbow has been progressing steadily, with the quarterback now cleared to resume practice this week. Despite the encouraging development, sources report that his chance of playing against Denver is minimal, reflecting the team’s cautious approach to his recovery. The Commanders have experienced the difficulty of playing without Daniels firsthand. Their offensive production has suffered in his absence, with inconsistent play from backups leaving the team vulnerable. The coaching staff will need to evaluate Daniels’ readiness while weighing the risk of aggravating his injury. Returning to practice allows Daniels to regain timing with his receivers, re-familiarize himself with the playbook under live conditions, and rebuild confidence in his throwing mechanics. These sessions will provide valuable information on whether he can safely participate in game action this season. The team’s medical and coaching staff must balance short-term needs against long-term player health. Pushing Daniels back too quickly could risk further injury and impact his future with the franchise, especially as he enters the early stages of what could be a franchise-defining career.

2. RGIII Weighs In on Caution

Robert Griffin III, reflecting on his own experiences with Washington, suggested that the Commanders should consider keeping Daniels sidelined for the remainder of the season. Griffin drew parallels to his own injury but noted the circumstances surrounding Daniels are unique and warrant a cautious approach. Griffin praised the organization for its management and leadership while emphasizing that immediate play may not serve the quarterback or the team in the long run. He stressed that with no playoff implications, protecting Daniels could provide greater benefits, including allowing him to enter 2026 fully healthy. His advice aligns with a broader strategy of maximizing the team’s position in the draft, where a higher pick could help strengthen the roster. Holding Daniels out could therefore serve both player development and organizational planning. While Griffin acknowledges Daniels’ competitive nature and likely desire to return, he encouraged the Commanders to prioritize the quarterback’s well-being over short-term gains. This guidance underscores the tension between elite athlete drive and strategic team management.

3. Balancing Competitiveness and Development

For Daniels, the desire to play is understandable. He has already demonstrated the skill and leadership qualities that make him the face of Washington’s future, and sitting out may be frustrating for a competitor of his caliber. From the team’s perspective, careful management of his workload could protect him from re-injury and ensure he is fully prepared for the 2026 season. In a year without playoff pressure, the focus shifts toward development, recovery, and long-term success. The Commanders will continue to monitor Daniels’ progress closely during practice sessions, weighing each day’s updates before making any decisions about game participation. The organization must strike a delicate balance between encouraging a star quarterback’s competitive instincts and safeguarding his career. Ultimately, the approach taken with Daniels could set the tone for the remainder of the season and influence the team’s draft and roster strategies moving forward, making this decision critical on multiple levels.