Jayden Daniels, the Commanders quarterback who’s been sidelined for two weeks, just got some seriously “positive” news: he’s got a real shot at playing in Week 5 against the New York Giants. But there’s one simple, crucial hurdle he has to clear first. According to ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler, all Daniels needs to do to get the green light for Sunday is log one full practice day this week. That’s it.
The Elbow Injury and a Clear Path Back
Remember that rough-looking left elbow injury Daniels suffered way back in Week 2 against the Dallas Cowboys? It knocked him out for two full weeks, and Commanders fans were definitely holding their breath. But now, as Week 5 looms, the outlook is officially “positive” for his return. Fowler laid it out clearly, stating, “The outlook for the Commanders’ Jayden Daniels potentially playing this week against the Giants is positive. The key, I’m told, is having him in practice in full. Limited participation likely won’t be enough. If he’s a full go in practice by, say, Friday, he’ll get the green light.” It’s a straightforward ask, and honestly, after seeing him out for so long, this is exactly the kind of update Washington needed.
Why This Week 5 Return is SO Critical
This isn’t just about getting a starter back. This is about absolute necessity. Marcus Mariota, the other Commanders quarterback, suffered an injury in Week 4 and is likely to miss time himself. Suddenly, getting Daniels back isn’t just a wish, it’s a lifeline. And talk about timing: they’re facing the New York Giants this weekend, who are sitting pretty as the top team in the NFC East with a 3-1 record. A win isn’t just a win here, it means the Commanders can get right back within striking distance of the division title. The Giants might be without Jaxson Dart, but Washington needs its own leader back in the huddle.
So, while Daniels might only be a limited participant during Wednesday’s practice, that doesn’t necessarily mean he’s out. Lots of players manage injuries or rest up on Wednesdays. The real indicators will be Thursday and Friday. If he can go full bore on either of those days, the Commanders could have their starting quarterback question answered. All eyes are on practice this week, because for Daniels and the Commanders, one full session could genuinely change their early season trajectory.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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