Jayden Daniels reportedly dealing with knee injury, status in doubt for Week 3
By Derek Hryn
Published:
The Washington Commanders may have another big piece added to their injury puzzle ahead of Week 3 as former LSU Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Jayden Daniels is dealing with a knee injury that leaves his status for Sunday’s matchup with the Las Vegas Raiders up in the air. The injury isn’t believed to be serious, but Washington could be without its offensive leader in Week 3.
Daniels had his knee heavily wrapped after last Thursday’s loss to the Green Bay Packers, where he took a beating from Green Bay’s front seven. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported that Daniels underwent an MRI, which revealed a knee sprain. While it’s not considered a long-term setback, his ability to go against Las Vegas will come down to how he responds throughout the week.
If Daniels can’t suit up, veteran Marcus Mariota would get the call. The 31-year-old knows the Raiders well, having played two seasons in Las Vegas (2020–21), and would bring some experience to the Commanders’ offense. Still, there’s no doubt Washington fans want to see their star QB stay on the field.
Through his first two starts, Daniels has shown flashes of why the Commanders made him their franchise guy, but durability is always a storyline for young quarterbacks taking hits early in their careers. Washington hosts the Raiders on Sept. 21, with kickoff set for 1 p.m. ET.
#Commanders QB Jayden Daniels, who underwent an MRI following the loss to the #Packers, was diagnosed with a sprained knee, per me and @MikeGarafolo.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 15, 2025
Not a long-term injury, but Daniels’ status this week vs the #Raiders is in doubt. pic.twitter.com/ovhEHkNnkl
