Due to a rib injury sustained during Sunday’s victory over the Carolina Panthers, quarterback Jayden Daniels of the Washington Commanders was unable to participate in practice on Wednesday. Head coach Dan Quinn has categorized him as “week-to-week,” despite the fact that his status for the forthcoming game against the Chicago Bears is still unknown.
Given that Daniels will be facing the Bears’ quarterback, Caleb Williams, who was selected first overall this year, the Commanders (5-2) are optimistic that Daniels will be able to play in this crucial game. Marcus Mariota, the backup who took over against Carolina, is expected to start if Daniels is unable to play.
After a 46-yard run during which he was awkwardly tackled by two defenders, Daniels sustained an injury early in the Panthers game. He was forced to abandon the game after grimacing during a warm-up pass, but he was unable to continue for a short while.
The Commanders won 40-7 thanks to Mariota’s excellent fill-in, who threw for 205 yards and two touchdowns on 18 of 23 completions. Quinn stated that even though Daniels has missed practice for the first time since being selected, the rookie still has a chance to play and that an update on his condition will be provided following Friday’s practice.
Daniels, who arrived in the spring, has impressed the Commanders with his work ethic and rigorous preparation. Before formal team meetings start, he personally walks through the facilities, which he usually does at 5 a.m.
His reputation as a conscientious and well-prepared quarterback has been further cemented in the NFL by his continuous usage of virtual reality to prepare for games, a strategy he embraced while attending LSU. Even though he missed practice, the squad is confident in his eventual comeback because of his solid preparation.
The former No. 2 overall pick in the 2015 draft, Marcus Mariota, has shared his experience with Daniels and given the rookie advice on the value of rehabilitation and health management. Mariota shared his own story of missing games early in his career, highlighting the importance of players putting their long-term health ahead of making a hasty comeback.
Linebacker Bobby Wagner and other teammates have also praised Mariota’s performance and preparedness after his relief attempt against Carolina, expressing confidence in his ability to step in.
The Bears’ quarterback, Caleb Williams, who was selected first overall this year, denied the rumours that he and Daniels will face off. Regardless of who is playing for the Commanders, Williams stressed that winning games is still his first priority. Williams stated that his strategy for the game won’t alter, despite his optimism that Daniels will recuperate in time to play. Health and preparedness are the top priorities for both teams as they concentrate on their individual season goals.
