With Jaden Daniels out for the rest of the 2025 season, the Washington Commanders seem to have a plan for their starting quarterback situation. Unfortunately, Daniels’ return didn’t go smoothly; he re-injured his elbow while trying to make a play against Andrew Van Ginkel, which sidelined him early during their Week 14 game against the Minnesota Vikings.
Coach Dan Quinn made the announcement about acquiring Daniels, the 2024 Offensive Rookie of the Year, following a victory over the New York Giants, where backup Marcus Mariota filled in.
Quinn explained his decision to work with Daniels by mentioning both medical and team considerations. While he won’t be playing in games, Daniels will still practice and aim to be ready once he’s back. This season has been tough for the Commanders, who are sitting at a disappointing 4-10, already out of the playoff race.
This isn’t the way anyone envisioned the season unfolding, especially considering that last year they made it to the NFC Championship Game. Daniels, the second overall pick in 2024, has faced various injuries, beginning with a knee issue in Week 2. He missed a couple of games, returned, but then suffered a hamstring strain in Week 7. The most significant setback, however, was in Week 9, where a severe elbow injury occurred during a difficult loss to the Seahawks.
Last season, Daniels quickly made a name for himself, helping the Commanders to a 12-5 record and significantly changing the franchise’s trajectory. Of course, Washington won Super Bowl LIX, overcoming their long absence from dominance since 1991. Yet, facing injury struggles this time has made things complicated for the coaching staff. They managed to beat the Giants 29-21, finally breaking an eight-game losing streak.
During Daniels’ absence, Mariota has stepped up, passing for around 1,600 yards with 10 touchdowns and seven interceptions, along with 298 rushing yards and one touchdown. His performance against New York emphasized his capability, completing 10 of 19 attempts for 211 yards and a touchdown.
As for the remainder of the season, Mariota is set to start the last three games, with veteran Josh Johnson as backup. Sam Hartman, the former Wake Forest and Notre Dame quarterback, is also on the practice squad, adding further depth to their quarterbacking options.
