Overview
- Offensive coordinator David Blough said Thursday that Jayden Daniels is “full go” after practicing fully and the Commanders expect him to start Sunday while wearing a brace on his left, non‑throwing elbow.
- Two top receivers, Terry McLaurin and Stefon Diggs, missed consecutive practices with hamstring issues and are listed questionable, which could elevate rookie Antonio Williams and other depth targets.
- Backup QB Marcus Mariota remains out with a knee injury, leaving rookie Athan Kaliakmanis as the primary backup and practice‑squad Sam Hartman as the emergency option.
- Daniels’ return changes the immediate outlook for the 1‑3 Commanders in Sunday’s NFC East matchup with the 3‑1 Giants, who present a particular matchup challenge with Malik Nabers against Washington’s struggling pass defense.
- The team has again chosen a brace‑and‑rehab approach rather than surgery for Daniels’ repeat left‑elbow dislocation, a short‑term plan that speeds his return but raises longer‑term availability and protection concerns for coaches and trainers.