The Washington Commanders head into a pivotal international matchup this weekend with uncertainty still surrounding the status of quarterback Jayden Daniels.
As the team prepares to face the Miami Dolphins in Madrid, questions continue to mount about when the second-year passer will return, and how Washington will navigate another stretch without its franchise cornerstone.
Daniels has been sidelined since suffering a dislocated elbow in Week 9 against the Seattle Seahawks, an injury that forced him out late in a difficult loss, and led to the team being ripped for keeping him in the game duirng garbage time.
Early concerns hinted at a potentially season-ending setback, but scans brought better news: no ligament damage and no surgery required. Head coach Dan Quinn confirmed the team opted not to place Daniels on injured reserve, a move that keeps the door open for a return later in the season.
The Commanders have been cautious with the recovery process, especially given Daniels’ injury-filled season, one that already included a knee sprain and a hamstring issue. With the team trying to stabilize after a five-game losing streak and a 3–7 record, clarity at quarterback would be invaluable.
But that clarity won’t come this week. Daniels did not travel with the team to Spain and has been ruled out of Sunday’s game, along with wide receiver Treylon Burks and linebacker Ale Kaho.
The team will re-evaluate him after its Week 12 bye, with a more defined timeline expected as Washington approaches its Nov. 30 meeting with the Denver Broncos.
In the meantime, veteran Marcus Mariota continues in relief. The 32-year-old has logged 852 passing yards with six touchdowns and four interceptions across his appearances this season.
Sunday’s game brings added attention, marking the NFL’s first regular-season contest in Spain. Kickoff at the Santiago Bernabéu comes with both teams entering at 3–7 and fighting to stay in the playoff conversation.
Miami, healthier now after an 0–3 start, has won two of its last three and is trying to build momentum behind Tua Tagovailoa and a steadying defense.
The Commanders, meanwhile, remain battered defensively, with cornerbacks Marshon Lattimore and Trey Amos on injured reserve and several other starters sidelined. Against a Miami offense that thrives on timing and spacing, Washington’s depleted secondary will be tested early and often.
For now, the Commanders continue to balance long-term caution with short-term urgency. Daniels avoiding IR and surgery remains a positive sign for later this season, but as Washington tries to salvage its year, the wait for his return continues.