For the Washington Commanders, Week 9 preparation is clouded by uncertainty at two critical positions: left tackle and quarterback. 

As the team heads into a Sunday-night showdown with the Seattle Seahawks, coaches and medical staff are closely monitoring the status of All-Pro left tackle Laremy Tunsil and signal-caller Jayden Daniels, who gestured to his mom after sustaining an injury.

Tunsil exited Monday night’s 28-7 loss to the Kansas City Chiefs after suffering a hamstring injury on the team’s opening drive. He briefly returned before being ruled out for the remainder of the game, while Chiefs coach Andy Reid gave his honest verdict pregame about the Commanders’ injuries.

Washington listed Tunsil as ‘did not practice’ Wednesday, raising fresh concerns about his availability. A Thursday report noted he returned to practice on Thursday, putting him on track for a potential return, but the timeline remains unclear.

Tunsil’s absence would be a major blow. Acquired in March in a high-profile trade, he anchors a revamped offensive line that has been central to Washington’s 2025 plans.

Sunday’s opponent, the Seahawks, boasts one of the league’s most disruptive defenses, making Tunsil’s status pivotal. If he cannot go, the Commanders will likely turn to backup Brandon Coleman, who stepped in Monday but lacks the full season’s workload at left tackle.

At the other end of the field, Daniels is working his way back from a low-grade hamstring strain that cost him Week 8. 

Head coach Dan Quinn said the quarterback is expected to “practice in full” this week, and Daniels was a full participant by Wednesday. Details of the injury’s severity remain vague, however, and the team is proceeding cautiously.

Daniels’ health is foundational to Washington’s offensive identity. The sophomore has shown dual-threat capabilities and his mobility is a key asset. 

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The backup, Marcus Mariota, started Monday but lacks the dynamic upside that Daniels offers. If the quarterback is limited or unavailable, Washington will need game-plan adjustments — quick timing routes, fewer deep drops, and more protection looks.

With both tackle and quarterback potentially compromised, the Commanders face a cascading risk: reduced protection, more hurried throws, and an offense that might struggle to sustain drives as they did against Kansas City. 

Pressuring matchups await in Seattle, where the Seahawks are 3-0 on the road and allow the fewest rushing yards per game in the league.