Jayden Daniels exits early with hamstring injury — could this be a major setback for the Commanders’ season?

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels suffered a right hamstring injury during Sunday’s matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, adding to an already injury-riddled season for the team.

The injury occurred early in the third quarter and forced Daniels out of the game, leaving Washington scrambling for stability at the quarterback position once again.

Jayden Daniels injury update

The injury took place with 11:53 left in the third quarter when Dallas linebacker Shemar James broke through Washington’s offensive line on a first-and-10 play. Daniels initially looked ready to throw but decided to tuck the ball under pressure. As James made contact, Daniels lost control of the ball and went down awkwardly.

He immediately grabbed the back of his right leg, a clear indication of a hamstring issue.

Medical staff attended to him on the field before escorting him to the locker room for further evaluation. Shortly after, the Commanders officially ruled him out for the rest of the game. Before exiting, Daniels completed 12 of 22 passes for 156 yards and a touchdown, while also adding 35 rushing yards and another score — showcasing once again the dual-threat ability that has made him one of the most exciting young quarterbacks in the league.

Daniels’ absence was immediately felt. Backup quarterback Marcus Mariota stepped in but struggled to find rhythm, throwing a pick-six on his first drive that widened Dallas’s lead to 41-15. Cowboys won the game by 44-22.

What Jayden Daniels’ injury means for the Commanders

The Commanders’ offense has been decimated by injuries this season. Key playmakers Terry McLaurin, Deebo Samuel, and Noah Brown were already sidelined, while star running back Austin Ekeler was lost for the year in Week 2 with an Achilles tear.

Because of these setbacks, Washington’s projected starting lineup hasn’t taken the field together since training camp.Daniels’ potential absence looms large. The rookie already missed two games earlier this year with a sprained left knee, and the Commanders can ill afford another prolonged loss. In his five appearances, Daniels has completed 61% of his passes for 1,031 yards, eight touchdowns, and just one interception — numbers that underscore his growth and promise.With the Kansas City Chiefs up next on October 27, all eyes will be on Daniels’ recovery timeline. The Commanders will hope their young quarterback can heal quickly, but for now, veteran Marcus Mariota will have to lead an offense fighting to stay afloat.Also Read: From concerts to kickoffs: Ed Kelce shows just how close he’s grown to Taylor Swift