Jayden Daniels out vs. Colts with elbow injury

Dustin Judge
Washington Commanders QB Jayden Daniels

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels’ elbow injury will sideline him for Sunday’s game against the Indianapolis Colts in London, head coach Dan Quinn announced Friday. The decision came after Daniels was limited in practice Wednesday and Thursday.

Daniels dislocated the elbow in Washington’s Week 2 loss at Dallas, the second time he has suffered that injury in the same arm in 10 months. He first dislocated it in a Week 9 loss to Seattle last season, then aggravated it five weeks later against Minnesota, prompting the Commanders to shut him down for the rest of that year.

What the team and sources said

Quinn approved Daniels’ trip to London and practice ahead of the Colts game, and Daniels was a limited participant on both Wednesday and Thursday, according to CBS Sports. Daniels said this week he believed he could play through the injury while wearing a brace. When asked about reinjury concerns at the team’s England hotel, he said, “That’s what the brace is for,” per ESPN. He added he’s “taking it day by day” but feels good heading into the weekend.

Despite that optimism, Quinn ruled him out Friday. Exams showed no fractures or extensive damage to the surrounding structures, which could allow a quicker return than last year’s extended absence. Daniels likely will need surgery after the 2026 season.

Who replaces him

Marcus Mariota will make his second consecutive start with Daniels out. Mariota threw three touchdown passes in Washington’s Week 3 win over the Seahawks.

What’s next

The Commanders (1-2) face the Colts (1-2) on Sunday in London with Mariota under center. Daniels’ next opportunity to start is Week 5 against the New York Giants.

Reporting from CBS Sports, ESPN, Yahoo Sports and Bleacher Report contributed to this story.

Dustin Judge is the Founder and CEO of Total Apex Media, bringing more than 20 years of writing and editorial experience to the company's growing network of digital publications. He specializes in sports, sports betting, fantasy sports, and digital publishing, with a focus on producing accurate, timely, and engaging content for readers. Dustin oversees editorial strategy, content development, and publishing operations across Total Apex Media while remaining actively involved in sports, betting, and fantasy sports coverage.