Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels remains uncertain for Sunday’s matchup against the Chicago Bears following a rib injury sustained in last week’s game against the Carolina Panthers. Daniels, the second overall draft pick behind Caleb Williams, returned to practice on Friday, albeit in a limited capacity, and was officially designated as “questionable” for the upcoming game. His participation would set up a high-profile showdown with Chicago’s top draft pick, Williams. However, if Daniels is unable to start, Marcus Mariota will take his place as Washington’s quarterback.
Daniels himself is eager to play, but he acknowledged that the decision is ultimately in the hands of the team’s coaching and medical staff. He expressed this sentiment during a media session on Friday, highlighting his willingness to return but deferring the final call to those responsible for player health and strategy. This ambiguous situation could also serve as a strategic move by Washington to keep Chicago guessing in their defensive preparations. Head coach Matt Eberflus of the Bears is prepared for both scenarios, emphasizing that his team’s primary focus remains on their own preparation rather than trying to anticipate which quarterback will start for Washington. Eberflus noted that both Daniels and Mariota have similar mobile skill sets, suggesting that the Commanders’ offense might not significantly alter its approach regardless of who plays.
On the Bears’ side, key defensive players Jaquan Brisker (concussion) and Kyler Gordon (hamstring) have been ruled out for Sunday’s game. Brisker, who sustained a concussion in Week 5, has yet to practice since the injury, and Gordon has been sidelined since injuring his hamstring in Week 6 during the team’s trip to London. Chicago also lists offensive tackle Larry Borom (ankle), running back Travis Homer (finger), and defensive end Jacob Martin (toe) as questionable, though these players remain on injured reserve and would need to be activated to the 53-man roster before they are eligible to participate. Conversely, the Bears will benefit from the return of defensive tackle Zacch Pickens (groin), cornerback Terell Smith (hip), and cornerback Tyrique Stevenson (calf), all of whom missed Week 6.
The uncertainty surrounding Daniels’ status exemplifies the kind of difficult decisions teams face in balancing player health and performance, particularly as young athletes manage the physical challenges of their rookie seasons. As Washington prepares to take on Chicago, the outcome of this decision will impact both teams’ game plans, particularly as both franchises look to assess and develop their quarterback talent while navigating their respective injury situations.
