Update on Jayden Daniels: Commanders have not discussed IR placement; surgery ‘not on the table’

Washington Commanders general manager Adam Peters expressed optimism about quarterback Jayden Daniels’ recovery from an elbow injury. Peters said Friday morning that, at this stage, surgery is not an option and the team has not discussed placing him on the long-term injured list (IR), adding that the manner and timing of the player’s return to the field will be determined later.

As reported by the NFL, Daniels spent the week consulting with specialists to clarify the extent of the injury and expectations for the length of absence. Peters’ comments imply that the club currently does not see the IR list as a solution, which would mean an absence of at least four weeks; this signals the expectation is for a quicker return if his condition improves.

The injury occurred late in the first half of the loss to Dallas: after a play was blown dead, an opposing player stepped on Daniels, who tried to brace his fall with his non-throwing arm, which bent awkwardly. Doctors later confirmed it was a dislocated elbow. A year earlier, Daniels’ season was cut short and ended due to similar issues with the same elbow, which makes his recovery situation delicate.

Coach Dan Quinn said Monday that Marcus Mariota is expected to start Sunday’s game against Seattle, but if Daniels is not placed on IR, there is a chance he could return within a few weeks. Washington has on its schedule the game against Indianapolis in London in Week 4, the matchup with the New York Giants in Week 5 and the trip to the San Francisco 49ers in Week 6, before the bye; according to the NFL, upcoming developments and specialists’ advice will determine whether he will be ready for any of these duels.