If an 0-2 start to the campaign was not bad enough, Jayden Daniels, the Washington Commanders and the fan base will now all have to suffer through an awful case of deja vu. The 25-year-old quarterback dislocated his left elbow during Sunday's eventual 37-20 loss versus the Dallas Cowboys, the same injury he sustained in a Nov. 2 loss to the Seattle Seahawks last season. A clearer timetable should soon emerge, but the NFL-watching world at least has a frame of reference to use this time.

Daniels was sidelined for roughly a month and missed three games before returning to compete in a Dec. 7 road game against the Minnesota Vikings. He aggravated the elbow issue and was shut down for the remainder of the campaign.

From @GMFB: The latest on what today holds for injuries to #Bears QB Caleb Williams and #Commanders QB Jayden Daniels. pic.twitter.com/s8GMx0KQHR

— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) September 21, 2026

Knowing the obvious risks of re-injury, Washington may be forced to exercise more caution this season. The 2024 Pro Bowler and Offensive Rookie of the Year cannot afford another setback, and neither can the Commanders.

They will not be able to move forward if their franchise QB is consistently unavailable. A lingering elbow problem could derail another talented Washington signal-caller and set the team back several years. Daniels was not wearing a brace, but after this latest dislocation, that should change moving forward. Further tests will determine if there is ligament damage.

The Commanders' offensive line remains an area of concern, so even when the 2023 Heisman Trophy winner does return, anxiety levels will remain high in the D.C. area. Jayden Daniels has completed 29-of-51 passes (56.9 completion percentage) for 260 yards and three touchdowns, while also rushing for 100 yards in the first two games of the 2026 season. Marcus Mariota will likely take his place under center.