ASHBURN, Va. — The Washington Commanders will be without quarterback Jayden Daniels in their upcoming game against the Denver Broncos on Sunday, as he has been ruled out due to a dislocated elbow he suffered during Week 9. Coach Dan Quinn confirmed the news on Friday, but he expressed optimism about Daniels’ potential return this season, possibly as early as Week 14 against the Minnesota Vikings.
In brighter news for the Commanders, wide receiver Terry McLaurin is set to play for the second time since Week 3. Washington has struggled with a six-game losing streak, largely due to the absence of key players, including McLaurin.
Daniels, whose injury has kept him sidelined for the last two games, practiced throughout the week, although Quinn regarded him as “unlikely” to participate in Sunday’s matchup. While listed as a limited participant in practice, Daniels has shown improvement. Quinn described the week as a “great first step” towards recovery, even as Daniels has yet to receive clearance for contact. The young quarterback has experienced multiple injuries this season, including a sprained left knee that led to missed games and a right hamstring injury.
Additionally, Quinn announced that receiver Noah Brown will not play, as he remains on injured reserve with a groin injury sustained in Week 2. On a positive note, starting safety Will Harris may be activated for the game after a lengthy absence caused by a fractured fibula.
McLaurin’s return is especially significant for the Commanders, who have missed his contributions on offense. After a brief return in Week 7 against Kansas City, he reaggravated a right quadriceps injury. However, McLaurin has reported feeling better now, stating, “I just feel like I don’t really have any tightness in my injury area… I definitely feel better this time around, and the ramp-up process has been really good.”
As the Commanders prepare to face off against the 9-2 Broncos, the team’s resilience and potential return of key players may offer a much-needed boost as they seek to end their losing streak.