Following a devastating left elbow dislocation during the Washington Commanders' loss to the Dallas Cowboys, a recurring injury that caused him to miss significant time last year, star quarterback Jayden Daniels is undergoing further medical evaluations. This situation has led former players, like Kurt Warner, to controversially urge him to play through the pain, sparking widespread debate.

While opinions from former quarterbacks continue to flood the media, the Commanders must adopt a cautious approach regarding Daniels’ health. According to crucial updates shared by Ian Rapoport and Pat McAfee on X, Marcus Mariota is expected to start as quarterback on Sunday and may take on the role for multiple games. The franchise's next significant decision revolves around whether Daniels will need to be placed on Injured Reserve.

"Marcus Mariota is expected to start on Sunday and I would expect him to start multiple games..

The Commanders are hopeful that Jayden Daniels doesn't have to go on Injured Reserve"@RapSheet #PMSLive pic.twitter.com/focMszXBKv

— Pat McAfee (@PatMcAfeeShow) September 22, 2026

This uncertainty has cast a shadow over the organization. However, amidst the medical evaluations and tough roster decisions, minority owner Magic Johnson provided a glimpse of reassurance about the locker room morale. On Monday, Johnson shared on X that he had a positive check-in call with Daniels, stating that the young quarterback is in remarkably good spirits and remains hopeful as specialists work on his recovery plan.

As the Commanders prepare to turn to Mariota for their game against Seattle, the franchise is hoping that their cornerstone quarterback can avoid a lengthy stint on Injured Reserve and eventually return safely to the field.