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Ability to practice will determine Jayden Daniels’s potential return next week

PUBLISHED Oct 4, 2026, 11:24 PM ET

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Ability to practice will determine Jayden Daniels’s potential return next week

Media Bias Meter

Sources: 30

Left 7%

Center 90%

Right 3%

Sources: 30

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels is aiming for a potential return next week against the New York Giants after missing time due to a dislocated left elbow sustained in Week 2 against the Dallas Cowboys. The urgency to restore Daniels to the starting lineup has intensified following an MCL sprain suffered by backup quarterback Marcus Mariota during the team's matchup against the Indianapolis Colts in London. A decisive factor in determining whether Daniels can start will be his ability to fully participate in team practice sessions following a series of limited appearances earlier in the week.

By Yusra M. | JQJO News

Timeline of Events

On September 20, 2026, Jayden Daniels suffered a dislocated left elbow during the matchup against the Dallas Cowboys.
On September 30, 2026, Daniels returned to practice in a limited capacity for the first time since his injury.
On October 1, 2026, head coach Dan Quinn and general manager Adam Peters confirmed that surgery was not immediately necessary.
On October 4, 2026, Daniels traveled with the team to London but was officially ruled out for the Week 4 game against Indianapolis.
On October 5, 2026, reports indicated that Daniels's potential return next week against the Giants depends on his practice participation amid backup Marcus Mariota's injury.

News Intelligence

Immediate US impact: Washington Commanders face quarterback uncertainty as both starter Jayden Daniels and backup Marcus Mariota manage injuries ahead of a pivotal division game against the New York Giants.
Possible long-term US impact: Franchise management carefully balances short-term competitive needs with the long-term health and development of franchise quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Most affected groups: Washington Commanders coaching staff, players, medical personnel, and NFL fans.
Reader Prioritization: Prioritise official injury reports, team medical updates, and head coach press conferences.

Media Bias

Articles Published:: 30
Right Leaning:: 1
Left Leaning:: 2
Neutral:: 27
Distribution:: Left 7%, Center 90%, Right 3%

Explain Framing

Left: Focuses on athlete health, medical protocols, and the broader implications of player safety in professional football. Center: Emphasizes factual practice reports, injury updates regarding Daniels and Mariota, and upcoming game schedules. Right: Highlights team resilience, competitive urgency, and strategic roster decisions required during a wave of injuries.