When the NFL finalized its 2025 schedule in May, the Washington Commanders were officially recognized for their breakthrough 2024 season. Washington landed multiple prime-time games, Sunday afternoon games, and standalone games, including one on Christmas Day. Not only were the Commanders a wonderful story, but sensational young quarterback Jayden Daniels was must-see TV.

So, when the NFL had the Commanders heading to Kansas City for a Week 8 showdown, it was only natural that the game be played under the bright lights at Arrowhead Stadium. It was Washington’s second Monday night game in three weeks, having played the Bears in Week 6. It also meant a showdown between the league’s top quarterback, Patrick Mahomes, and the fast-rising Daniels.

Now, one week away, that matchup could be in jeopardy. Daniels injured his hamstring in Sunday’s loss to the Dallas Cowboys. While the injury doesn’t appear to be a long-term concern, it could be enough to keep him out of Monday’s showdown in Kansas City.

ESPN’s Adam Schefter feuled those doubts about a Daniels-Mahomes showdown in his Monday appearance on the “Pat McAfee Show.”

“I think it would be safe to say right now that it would be a surprise if he’s playing a week from today against the Kansas City Chiefs on Monday Night Football,” Schefter said. “And the Commanders are about to embark upon really like the teeth of their schedule. They play the Chiefs, Seahawks and Lions. I think it’s fair to think thay Jayden Daniels is going to miss some of those games at the very least.”

If Daniels misses this game, it will be his third missed game of 2025. He missed Weeks 3 and 4 with a left knee sprain. The Commanders have been conservative with injuries, specifically soft tissues injuries. Wide receiver Terry McLaurin has missed four games and counting with a quad injury.

If Daniels can’t go, Marcus Mariota will make his third start. Mariota has played well this season in his two starts. He struggled in relief of Daniels last week, but so did the entire team. Perhaps Mariota will have some weapons to throw to in Week 8 if McLaurin and/or Deebo Samuel return.

The Commanders have dealt with a rash of injuries this season. Washington lost top pass rusher Dorance Armstrong for the season with a knee injury. The Commanders currently have three healthy defensive ends, having already lost Deatrich Wise and Javontae Jean-Baptiste for the season.