What Happened to Jayden Daniels? Injury Update and Return Timeline Explained

Jayden Daniels is still sidelined as the Washington Commanders enter Week 13 of the 2025 NFL season. The quarterback has missed three straight games after suffering a dislocated left elbow on November 3 against the Seattle Seahawks. Fans are now asking when the early-season star could return.

The injury looked severe when it occurred, but doctors confirmed that Daniels avoided fractures and ligament damage. That gave Washington hope he could return before the end of the regular season. The team continues to monitor his progress while preparing for another game without him.

Jayden Daniels Injury Details and Current Status

Daniels injured his left elbow in the final moments of Washington’s Week 9 loss at Seattle. The elbow bent awkwardly under contact, leading to an immediate medical evaluation. Team staff later confirmed that the elbow was dislocated but structurally intact.

The Commanders listed Daniels as limited in practice throughout Week 13. Reporters from major outlets, including AP and USA TODAY, noted that he participated in drills but remained restricted from contact. Washington has not cleared him for full football activity.

Daniels has now missed two games and will miss a third as the Commanders face the Denver Broncos on December 1. His availability for Week 14 against the Minnesota Vikings remains uncertain. The team has not provided a timetable, and the quarterback’s status is being evaluated weekly.

Washington must also consider its 3–8 record. The Commanders are close to postseason elimination and could choose to avoid further injury risk for their franchise quarterback. Daniels has expressed that he wants to play if cleared, but the final decision rests with team medical staff.

His season totals before the injury include 1,184 passing yards, eight touchdowns, two interceptions, and a 94.4 passer rating. He also rushed for 262 yards and two scores. Daniels has started six games this year and missed six more due to knee, hamstring, and elbow issues.

Commanders Quarterback Plan Moving Forward

Marcus Mariota will continue as the starter in Week 13. He makes his sixth start of the season and enters Sunday having lost four straight. Mariota last started consistently in 2022 with the Atlanta Falcons.

Veteran Josh Johnson remains the backup. The Commanders have relied on short-term adjustments while waiting for Daniels to return. Team decisions over the next two weeks will shape how Washington manages the rest of the season.

Daniels’ return will depend on medical clearance, competitive context, and Washington’s long-term plans at quarterback. The coming weeks will clarify whether he sees the field again in 2025.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What happened to Jayden Daniels?

He suffered a dislocated left elbow in Week 9 against the Seahawks. He avoided major structural damage. He remains limited in practice.

Q2: When could Jayden Daniels return?

There is no confirmed date. Washington hopes he may return before the regular season ends. Clearance will depend on healing and contact approval.

Q3: Who is starting at quarterback for the Commanders?

Marcus Mariota is starting in Week 13. Josh Johnson is serving as the backup. Daniels remains out.

Q4: How has Jayden Daniels played this season?

He has thrown eight touchdowns and two interceptions. He has added 262 rushing yards and two rushing scores. He has started six games.

Q5: Why might Washington rest Daniels?

The team is 3–8 and nearing playoff elimination. They may avoid risking further injury. Long-term health could take priority over late-season games.