Commanders may face challenging Jayden Daniels decision in Week 8

The Washington Commanders must use a cost-benefit analysis when determining whether second-year quarterback Jayden Daniels should play in their next game. 

The 2024 Offensive Rookie of the Year underwent an MRI on Monday after suffering a right hamstring injury in the third quarter of a 44-22 Week 7 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. He exited early in the third quarter after twisting his leg while trying to evade a sack. 

Following the MRI, Commanders head coach Dan Quinn said the injury isn't "significant." The bad news for Washington fans is he's still uncertain whether the QB will play in Week 8 against the Kansas City Chiefs on "Monday Night Football." The coach added he'll have a better sense of his status later this week.

Injury update complicates Commanders' decision for Week 8

Daniels already missed two games earlier this season because of a knee injury suffered in a Week 2 loss against the Green Bay Packers. Playing the banged-up QB against the Chiefs could put him at more risk. Per Pro Football Reference, Kansas City is tied with the Los Angeles Rams for the second-highest QB knockdown percentage (10.9%) in the league.

But should the 3-4 Commanders take that risk? Washington is third in the NFC East behind the Cowboys (3-3-1) and the Philadelphia Eagles (5-2). As of Monday, ESPN's Football Power Index gives the team just a 20.8% chance to make the playoffs.

Backup QB Marcus Mariota has looked spotty. When he started in place of Daniels earlier this season, he went 1-1. Through three games, the former Tennessee Titans starter has completed 35-of-58 passes for 426 yards, three TDs and two interceptions. 

Daniels could heal quickly, which would lessen concerns about the injury. If he still looks hobbled, though, that makes Quinn's Week 8 decision more challenging. The coach may feel pressure with the team's early postseason chances slipping away, but he must keep the future of the 24-year-old QB in mind.