The Washington Commanders have faced significant challenges during the 2025 season, primarily due to a series of injuries affecting their key players throughout the first two months. Among those impacted are star wide receivers Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel, but the most critical absence has been that of quarterback Jayden Daniels.
The second-year quarterback, who earned the Offensive Rookie of the Year title last season, missed the team’s Week 8 contest against the Kansas City Chiefs on “Monday Night Football” due to a hamstring injury, adding to the time he previously lost in Weeks 3 and 4 with a knee injury. His absence has undoubtedly affected the team’s performance, and as the Commanders prepare to host the Seattle Seahawks in Week 9, questions arose about whether Daniels would return.
With a current record of 3-5, placing them third in the NFC East, the Commanders are striving to remain competitive in the playoff race. In a positive turn, the team has confirmed that Daniels will be back under center for today’s game against the Seahawks. He participated fully in practice leading up to this important divisional matchup.
During his absence, veteran backup Marcus Mariota took the helm, starting three games but only managing to secure a single victory, resulting in a 1-2 record. Now, Mariota returns to his backup role as Daniels looks to regain his form and lead his team through the remainder of the season.
Historically, no NFC East team has claimed back-to-back division titles since the Philadelphia Eagles achieved four consecutive wins from 2001 to 2004. However, the Commanders are still in a position to contend for the division crown as they begin to regain their players’ health in the latter half of the season. Upcoming challenges include facing the Detroit Lions, Denver Broncos, and Minnesota Vikings in several of their next four matchups after today’s game against Seattle.
Washington’s quarterback depth chart reflects the team’s situation, featuring Daniels at the top, followed by Mariota and Josh Johnson, who has had a diverse career, playing for a total of seven teams. As the Commanders aim to turn the tide of their season, the return of Jayden Daniels brings renewed hope and potential for an upswing in performance.