The Washington Commanders appear poised to get their franchise quarterback back on the field in Week 5. Jayden Daniels is on track to start Sunday against the New York Giants after missing the last two games with a dislocated left elbow.

The news comes at an important time for Washington, which fell to 1-3 following Sunday’s 30-13 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. The Commanders now have a clear plan for Daniels’ return as they prepare for a critical NFC East matchup.

Daniels expected to return to practice

MINNEAPOLIS, MINNESOTA – DECEMBER 07: Jayden Daniels #5 of the Washington Commanders looks to pass against the Minnesota Vikings during the first half at U.S. Bank Stadium on December 07, 2025 in Minneapolis, Minnesota. (Photo by Ellen Schmidt/Getty Images)

Head coach Dan Quinn said the team’s goal is for Daniels to participate in a full week of practice before returning to the starting lineup. Daniels was already able to participate on a limited basis last week but was ultimately ruled out against Indianapolis.

Now, the Commanders expect Daniels to take all of the first-team reps Wednesday, Thursday and Friday as they determine whether he is ready to play.

NFL Network’s Mike Garafolo reported Tuesday that Daniels is “on track” to start against the Giants, providing the strongest indication yet that his return is imminent.

Daniels suffered the elbow injury on Sept. 20 against the Dallas Cowboys. After consulting with multiple specialists, Washington determined that he could return this season without surgery and would wear a brace to protect the injured elbow.

Marcus Mariota injury makes Daniels’ return even more important

Oct 27, 2025; Kansas City, Missouri, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Marcus Mariota (8) reacts during the second quarter of the game against the Kansas City Chiefs at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Jay Biggerstaff-Imagn Images

Daniels’ return suddenly became even more important after backup quarterback Marcus Mariota suffered another MCL sprain in Sunday’s loss to Indianapolis. Mariota had started the previous two games while Daniels recovered and now could miss additional time.

Rookie Athan Kaliakmanis was forced into action against the Colts after Mariota’s injury, completing 14 of 24 passes for 186 yards, one touchdown and one interception.

Daniels, meanwhile, has completed 65.9% of his passes this season with three touchdowns and no interceptions in his limited action.

With Washington sitting at 1-3, getting its starting quarterback back could be exactly what the Commanders need to turn their season around.

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