Overview
- The dislocated left elbow that knocked Jayden Daniels out of the Dallas game occurred Sunday and is the same elbow he injured last season, prompting immediate follow-up testing.
- Washington is collecting MRI scans and multiple medical opinions this week to choose between conservative bracing and a stabilizing surgery that would likely end Daniels' season.
- Daniels reportedly prefers to avoid immediate surgery, but team doctors and outside orthopedists say MRI findings will be pivotal because repeat dislocations are uncommon and may signal ligament problems.
- Marcus Mariota has been named the Week 3 starter and is expected to start multiple games while Daniels is evaluated, with coach Dan Quinn expressing confidence in Mariota to manage the short-term stretch.
- The injury amplifies longer-term questions for the Commanders about quarterback depth and roster moves, with analysts suggesting higher-upside insurance options such as trade targets ahead of the November deadline.