Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels dislocated his left elbow during the team's Week 2 loss to the Dallas Cowboys.
While many anticipated in the injury – which was an aggravation of an injury he suffered during the 2025 campaign – would sideline Daniels long-term, the 25-year-old has made a speedy recovery.
As a result, it looks like Daniels is going to be able to play in Week 5 when the Commanders face the New York Giants.
Here's what to know about Daniels' injury, his status and Washington's overall health at the quarterback position entering Week 5.
Is Jayden Daniels playing Week 5?
Commanders offensive coordinator David Blough effectively announced Daniels would be playing in Week 5 during a media availability on Thursday, Oct. 8.
"He's full go, man," Blough told
reporters when asked about Daniels' status. "We're looking forward to having him back."
Blough's assertion came after Daniels was a full participant in practice on Wednesday. He also logged full participation on Thursday, setting himself up to return after missing two starts because of the injury.
Daniels' practice participation is an upgrade from Week 4, when he was limited in all three sessions before being declared out for the Commanders' London game against the Indianapolis Colts. Washington lost that contest 30-13 with Daniels sidelined.
Daniels is expected to wear a brace on his non-throwing elbow to protect and stabilize it.
Who is Jayden Daniels' backup QB?
Daniels' return to the lineup won't be the only shake-up for Washington's quarterback depth chart. The Commanders also figure to have a new backup quarterback, as Marcus Mariota aggravated an MCL sprain in his Week 4 start against the Colts.
That will position seventh-round rookie Athan Kaliakmanis to move into the backup role behind Daniels. The Rutgers product played in relief of Mariota against the Colts, completing 15 of 33 passes for 186 yards, one touchdown and one interception.
Commanders QB depth chart
Below is a look at the state of the Commanders' quarterback depth chart entering Week 5:
- Jayden Daniels
- Marcus Mariota (injured)
- Athan Kaliakmanis
- Sam Hartman (practice squad)
It isn't clear whether the Commanders will elevate Hartman from the practice squad if Mariota can't play. The Notre Dame product is in his third season with the Commanders but has never played a regular-season snap for the team.
The Commanders will not be able to designate Hartman as an emergency, third-string quarterback if they call him up because he is not on the 53-man roster.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Is Jayden Daniels playing Week 5? Commanders OC reveals QB's status
