Jayden Daniels returns: Commanders with starting QB vs Chargers

Jayden Daniels Returns as Commanders’ Starter

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels will return to the starting lineup this Sunday after missing the last two games due to a sprained left knee. Daniels fully participated in training throughout the week and confirmed on Wednesday his willingness to play against the Los Angeles Chargers. The match will be played about 70 kilometers from his hometown, San Bernardino. Coach Dan Quinn made the decision official after the Commanders’ practice at the Los Angeles Coliseum. This is positive news for the team, which is coming off a 34-27 loss against the Atlanta Falcons and facing multiple injuries to key players.

He had a great week.
Dan Quinn

Washington will play a second consecutive game without two of its top three receivers: Terry McLaurin (quadriceps) and Noah Brown (groin/calf). Brown also missed a Week 3 game against the Las Vegas Raiders due to the injury. Daniels has been training with a black knee brace on his left knee and will play with it on Sunday, according to Quinn.

I’m not the biggest fan, but if that’s what I have to use, I’ll do my best.
Jayden Daniels

The knee brace doesn’t restrict his movements, a fundamental aspect for Sunday. The Chargers have allowed the third-most rushing yards by quarterbacks this season; Daniels led all quarterbacks with 570 rushing yards as a rookie in 2024. The Commanders’ offense performed well with backup Marcus Mariota, scoring a combined total of 61 points. In his four games in relief of Daniels over the last two seasons, Mariota threw for a combined total of 729 yards, seven touchdowns, and one interception.

He played as well as one can play. They are different styles and Jayden is a unique talent, the way he plays, moves, throws. He is generational, so every time you have him back, that’s going to lift your team.
Kliff Kingsbury

Daniels stated that it was difficult to miss two games. He said he could have played two weeks ago, but “I don’t make those decisions.” He wasn’t medically cleared to play until Wednesday. Daniels also indicated that he will not alter his style of play after taking a hit to the knee on a run in the fourth quarter against the Green Bay Packers in Week 2.