The Washington Commanders will be without quarterback Jayden Daniels for Sunday’s Week 3 matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders. Head coach Dan Quinn ruled Daniels out on Friday, naming veteran Marcus Mariota as Washington’s starting quarterback against the Raiders.
Daniels sprained his knee in last week’s loss to the Packers. He did not practice on Wednesday and Thursday, but did so on a limited basis on Friday. However, Washington chose caution.
“Yeah, just not being there all the way yet, honestly, like being able to do everything,” Quinn said on why the Commanders eventually ruled Daniels out. “So, there’s also a side that it was an excellent week because of the progress and encouragement to go. So, the fact that he was able to throw all days and get running in today, were just not there all the way yet. It wasn’t just one specific test that I was looking for.”
It’s the first time Daniels has missed an NFL start.
Daniels isn’t the only notable Commander out for Sunday’s game. Washington also ruled out tight end John Bates and wide receiver Noah Brown. Bates will be missed for his blocking. He is one of the key figures in the Commanders’ successful rushing offense. His absence means more will be expected from second-year tight end Ben Sinnott. Fortunately for Washington, Zach Ertz will be on the field.
Brown serves as the Commanders’ No. 3 receiver. Washington signed Chris Moore from the practice squad last week, and he will likely see significant snaps against the Raiders.
Remember, the Commanders also lost running back Austin Ekeler and defensive end Deatrich Wise for the season last week.
Here’s the final injury report for both teams:
The Raiders are in good shape, especially considering they played in the second game of a doubleheader on Monday night and are traveling across the country.