What Happened: Recent Injury History
Jayden Daniels, quarterback for Washington Commanders, has had a rough 2025 season with multiple injuries. Earlier in the season, he suffered a right hamstring injury during a loss to the Dallas Cowboys. An MRI was scheduled to assess the severity.
Then in Week 9, Daniels dislocated his left elbow during a game against the Seattle Seahawks. The injury was alarming, and for a moment it looked like he might need surgery. However, team doctors ultimately ruled out fractures and ligament damage.
As a result, the team decided not to place him on injured reserve — leaving open the possibility for a return later this season.
Recovery & Return: Was He Cleared to Play?
After the dislocated elbow, Daniels began the recovery process. In late November, he returned to practice with the Commanders — though initially he was not cleared for contact.
By early December, however, the team announced he was fully cleared to play and would start their Week 14 game against the Minnesota Vikings.
Did Jayden Daniels Play Today — and What Happened?
Yes — Daniels did start today’s game against the Vikings.
Unfortunately, his return was short-lived. In the third quarter, after throwing an interception, Daniels was hit hard during the return and landed awkwardly on his previously injured left elbow. He immediately left the field and went into the medical tent; he was listed as “questionable to return.” But he ultimately did not re-enter the game.
So yes — he played today. But yes — he also got hurt again.
What That Means: Risks, Concerns & The Road Ahead
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The dislocated elbow had already sidelined Daniels for several games. Even though no surgery was required and no ligaments or bones were damaged, he remained vulnerable because it was his non-throwing arm.
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The fact that he re-injured the same elbow raises legitimate questions about his durability and long-term readiness this season.
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Coming back too soon — even with clearance — may carry risks, especially given that he landed on the same arm again today under game conditions.
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For his team, using Daniels again after such a serious injury is a balancing act: they want his talent, but need to weigh the risk of further setbacks.
Final Word: Mixed Outcome for Daniels’ Comeback
Jayden Daniels did get hurt and did play today — but the return turned out to be bittersweet. While it’s good he was cleared to start and got reps in, the re-injury mid-game is a setback for both the quarterback and the Commanders. For fans and fantasy football managers alike, today’s game underscores the ongoing uncertainty around Daniels’ health and availability.
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