The Washington Commanders got the job done in Week 3 without quarterback Jayden Daniels leading the charge. If they want to go deep into the postseason for the second-straight year, they'll need the dynamic signal-caller fit and firing on all cylinders sooner rather than later.
Daniels suffered a knee sprain against the Green Bay Packers and wasn't risked at Northwest Stadium. Marcus Mariota came in and did an admirable job as the Commanders attained a comfortable victory over the Las Vegas Raiders. He'd have no trouble doing the same versus another of his old teams this weekend, but this team will only go as far as Daniels takes it when push comes to shove.
With wide receiver Terry McLaurin becoming the latest health concern, and veteran safety Will Harris being placed on injured reserve with a broken fibula, Daniels' status is crucial. Nothing has been confirmed one way or another as yet. Still, the former LSU sensation was back on the practice field in a limited capacity to begin preparations for the Atlanta Falcons.
Jayden Daniels wants to play in Week 4, but that decision is down to the Commanders
The No. 2 pick in 2024 also spoke with reporters after practice. It was short as usual, but Daniels stated that he's feeling good and wants to play in Week 4. If that means wearing a brace on his knee, so be it.
Jayden Daniels: "It's up to the doctors, not my decision."
— John Keim (@john_keim) September 24, 2025
Also: "I feel good."
This was precisely what Commanders fans wanted to hear. At the same time, the decision on whether Daniels suits up is out of his hands.
The Commanders will only risk Daniels if they are 100 percent satisfied that there will be no risk of further damage. If the issue restricts his mobility and ability to make plays, that's another big problem.
As is the case with McLaurin, who is getting additional opinions on his complication before deciding on a course of action, it's a wait-and-see scenario. The Commanders are a better team when Daniels is behind center, but there is also a need for Washington to protect its franchise player.
If Daniels has to miss one more game to get himself 100 percent, that's not a big deal. The Falcons are beatable with or without him, especially considering they were embarrassingly shut out by the Carolina Panthers last time out. Precaution is key, but there is no doubt the dynamic dual-threat will be pushing hard to prove his fitness levels to head coach Dan Quinn and Washington's medical staff in the days to come.
Until then, we wait.