Jayden Daniels Injury Update: Will Commanders QB Miss More Time After Hamstring Scare vs. Cowboys?

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels suffered a hamstring injury during the second half of the team’s Week 7 clash against the Dallas Cowboys, raising fresh concerns about his availability going forward. The rookie quarterback limped off the field after being brought down awkwardly, clutching the back of his right leg.

Daniels was quickly escorted to the medical tent and later seen jogging slowly toward the locker room. Washington officially listed him as “questionable” to return due to a hamstring injury, leaving fans and coaches anxious about his status for the rest of the game and potentially beyond.

Jayden Daniels Leaves Week 7 Game With Hamstring Injury

The injury occurred as the Commanders were attempting to build momentum in the second half. Daniels, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, fumbled the ball after heavy contact in the backfield. As the Cowboys recovered the loose ball, Daniels remained on the ground, visibly in pain and holding his right upper leg.

This latest setback is particularly worrying given Daniels’ recent injury history. He previously missed two games earlier this season with a knee injury and has been wearing a substantial brace on his left leg since his return. The current issue, however, affects his right leg and appears to be related to his hamstring — a key muscle group for a mobile quarterback like Daniels.

Washington’s medical staff will conduct further evaluations to determine the severity of the injury. Early signs were mixed: while the fact that Daniels was jogging indicated he might have avoided a major tear, hamstring injuries are notoriously tricky and can sideline players for weeks if not managed carefully.

Commanders’ Quarterback Depth Tested Again

With Daniels sidelined, veteran quarterback Marcus Mariota stepped in under center. Mariota, a former Oregon star and Heisman Trophy winner, has already started games for Washington this season when Daniels was out with a knee problem. Behind Mariota, journeyman Josh Johnson rounds out the Commanders’ quarterback depth chart.

The Commanders have been plagued by injuries across the roster in 2025, a factor contributing to their inconsistent performances. Losing Daniels — the face of the franchise and a dynamic dual-threat quarterback — for any extended period would be a major blow to their playoff hopes. Head coach Dan Quinn and the offensive staff have built much of their playbook around Daniels’ mobility and playmaking ability, something that would be difficult to replicate with a backup.

For now, the Commanders are clinging to optimism that Daniels’ injury is not severe. The team has not provided a detailed timeline, but the situation will be closely monitored in the days ahead. If further testing reveals only a mild strain, Daniels could return as soon as Week 8. However, a more significant injury could mean multiple weeks on the sidelines.

What This Means for Washington’s Season

The Commanders’ offense has relied heavily on Daniels’ ability to extend plays and create opportunities with his legs. A prolonged absence would force a shift toward a more traditional pocket-passing approach under Mariota, which could limit the team’s explosiveness and adaptability on offense.

Washington’s schedule does not get any easier after Week 7, with crucial divisional matchups on the horizon. The outcome of Daniels’ medical evaluations could very well shape the remainder of their season. As one of the brightest young quarterbacks in the league, his health is not just vital for the Commanders’ playoff aspirations but also for the long-term direction of the franchise.

Jayden Daniels’ injury update will remain the central storyline for Washington in the coming days. Fans and analysts alike await further details, hoping that the dynamic rookie will avoid a significant setback and return to action soon.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest on Jayden Daniels’ injury?

Daniels left Week 7 with a right hamstring injury and is listed as questionable to return. He was seen jogging to the locker room, a sign the injury may not be severe.

Q2: Has Jayden Daniels missed games this season?

Yes. Daniels missed two games earlier in the season due to a knee injury. The current hamstring injury is on the opposite leg.

Q3: Who is the Commanders’ backup quarterback?

Marcus Mariota is Washington’s No. 2 quarterback, with veteran Josh Johnson as the third option on the depth chart.

Q4: How could this injury impact the Commanders?

If Daniels misses significant time, Washington’s offense could become less dynamic, and their playoff chances may diminish.

Q5: When will the Commanders provide an official update?

More information on Daniels’ condition is expected following post-game evaluations and medical imaging.