Jayden Daniels Injury Update: Will Commanders QB Return After Hamstring Setback vs. Chiefs?

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels has been officially ruled out for the team’s Monday Night Football matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs. The decision follows a hamstring injury Daniels suffered in Week 7 against the Dallas Cowboys, which forced him to exit early and miss the rest of the contest.

Head coach Dan Quinn confirmed over the weekend that the rookie quarterback’s injury is not considered serious. However, the team decided to prioritize long-term recovery over rushing him back for a prime-time game. Marcus Mariota will start in Daniels’ place as the Commanders look to bounce back after a 44-22 defeat to Dallas.

Jayden Daniels’ Latest Status and Recovery Outlook

Daniels, who had already missed two games earlier this season with a knee issue, now faces another brief setback due to the hamstring strain. Quinn said the injury “wasn’t significant” and that Daniels is expected to be back soon, possibly as early as next week depending on his rehab progress. The Commanders are taking a cautious approach, ensuring the young quarterback avoids aggravating the injury.

“We knew it wasn’t going to be significant, meaning long, but also not well enough to say, ‘Okay, in six days it’s ready to go,’” Quinn explained. “So this week will be focused on his rehab with hopes of a return next week.”

In the meantime, veteran backup Marcus Mariota takes the reins under center. Mariota has appeared in two games this season, completing 60.3% of his passes for 426 yards, three touchdowns, and two interceptions while posting a 1-1 record as a starter.

Commanders’ Quarterback Depth Chart for Week 8

Washington enters the Chiefs matchup with a restructured quarterback lineup. Behind Mariota, veteran Josh Johnson will serve as the backup. Johnson, 39, has played for 14 different NFL teams and holds a 1-8 career record as a starter. Rookie Sam Hartman, an undrafted free agent from Notre Dame, remains on the practice squad as additional insurance.

The Commanders hope Mariota can maintain offensive stability while Daniels continues to recover. With Washington sitting at 3-4, the team is fighting to return to .500 and remain competitive in the NFC playoff picture.

What Daniels’ Absence Means for Washington

Daniels’ dynamic playmaking has been one of the bright spots for Washington this season. His ability to extend plays and create opportunities downfield has energized the offense. Losing him again, even temporarily, is a setback for a team still finding its rhythm under Dan Quinn.

However, the long-term view remains optimistic. If Daniels’ recovery goes as planned, he could rejoin the lineup in Week 9, giving the Commanders a much-needed boost as they approach the midway point of the season.

Jayden Daniels’ health remains a top priority for Washington. The Commanders are confident that resting him against the Chiefs will allow him to return stronger and avoid any lingering effects from the hamstring strain.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Jayden Daniels playing on Monday Night Football?

No. Jayden Daniels has been ruled out for the Commanders’ Week 8 game against the Kansas City Chiefs due to a hamstring injury.

Q2: Who is starting for the Commanders in Week 8?

Marcus Mariota will start at quarterback for Washington, with Josh Johnson as the backup.

Q3: When will Jayden Daniels return?

Head coach Dan Quinn indicated Daniels could return as early as Week 9 if his rehab continues smoothly.

Q4: How serious is Jayden Daniels’ hamstring injury?

Quinn described it as “not significant,” suggesting a short-term recovery timeline.

Q5: What is the Commanders’ record entering Week 8?

The Washington Commanders are currently 3-4 heading into their matchup with the Chiefs.