Jayden Daniels’ Gruesome Injury Receives Major Update From Sports Doctor

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Cole Sullivan | Last updated Nov 3, 2025 3:18 AM ET

Key Points

The Commanders fell to 3-6 on Sunday night after losing 38-14 to the Seattle Seahawks.
Jayden Daniels left the game with a dislocated elbow.
He is now expected to be "sidelined indefinitely."

The Washington Commanders entered Sunday night’s game against the Seattle Seahawks at 3-5, looking for a crucial win and welcoming back star quarterback Jayden Daniels, who had missed Week 8 with a hamstring injury.

That said, things quickly went awry for Washington. They fell 38-14, and Daniels suffered another, far more serious injury. He reportedly dislocated his elbow on his non-throwing arm and was placed in a brace as he was walked off the field.

According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Daniels is expected to be out indefinitely, paving the way for veteran Marcus Mariota to step in as the starter for the foreseeable future.

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) received medical attention during the second half against the Seattle Seahawks at Northwest Stadium. Amber Searls-Imagn Images

Shortly after the game, a key update was provided by former NFL team doctor David J. Chao, who spent over 17 seasons in the league.

Chao described Daniels’ dislocated elbow as “grotesque,” but noted that since it occurred on his non-throwing arm, Tommy John (UCL) surgery will not be required and the injury is not considered career-threatening.

He also added that there’s a slim chance Daniels could return at some point this season, though if the Commanders fall further out of playoff contention, it’s unlikely they’ll rush him back.

Jayden Daniels' elbow dislocation injury was grotesque, but because it is not his throwing elbow, there will not be a Tommy John UCL surgery. This injury is not career-threatening, and depending on the associated injuries, there is a slim chance it may not be season-ending. pic.twitter.com/of8MxxW0hH
— David J. Chao - ProFootballDoc (@ProFootballDoc) November 3, 2025

Jayden Daniels’ rookie campaign last season was nothing short of historic. Not only did he capture Offensive Rookie of the Year honors, but he also led the Commanders to the NFC Championship Game in his first season with the team.

However, his second year has been a much different story — derailed by multiple injuries and far from the success he enjoyed during his breakout rookie season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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