Adam Schefter reported the signing, and it’s a very good signing for the running back, who saw his snaps decrease heavily on the Buccaneers. Jayden Daniels and White spent two years together. In 2020, White led the Pac-12 in yards per attempt with 10.0. However, Daniels was not as prominent that year.

In 2021, Daniels became the starter of the team, throwing for 2,380 yards on 65.4 completion percentage, along with 10 TDs and 10 INTs. That season, Rachaad White had 1,462 scrimmage yards with 16 total TDs. During their college days together, White was more prominent. Now, the roles have reversed.

How has White fared in the NFL?

In four years in the NFL, White has established himself as a very good dual-threat back. In fact, he’s surpassed the 1,000-scrimmage-yard treshold twice in his career and has never had less than 771 scrimmage yards. However, he lost his starting job on the Buccaneers to the electric Bucky Irving, and hence he needed a change.

The Commanders only had second-year Jacory Croskey-Merritt and veteran Chase Edmonds on their RB depth chart. So for Rachaad White, this is a place where he can actually thrive and earn big-time snaps, instead of getting relegated in the pecking order.

The Commanders need a great running game to function

The Commanders had a 5-12 record last season just one year after going to the NFC Championship Game. There are two main reasons for that. Firstly, Jayden Daniels was injured for plenty of 2025.

Secondly, the Commanders ranked 22nd in total offense, while in 2024, they ranked seventh. That decline will take a huge toll on any team. Now, with hopes of revamping their stock, the Commanders and Daniels hope White can bring a new dynamic to the offense.

Daniels has played twice in Philadelphia. Both times, he lost in the City of Brotherly Love. However, in an interview with Sports Illustrated, said some comments that could be hurtful to his team’s fandom:

“I love Eagles fans. I love Eagles fans. They just embody what Philly brings. To be able to go out there and play against them, it’s kind of just that thing. Their environment is kind of like the closest thing you can get to a college environment.”

Now, Daniels then said that those fans fuel him. However, given that he has lost both trips to Philadelphia, Daniels needs to start getting road wins. This is especially harder to hear by Commanders fans due to the fact that the Eagles fandom mocked the Commanders on their own home turf.

Commanding the East

Eagles fans went to Maryland on December 20 and made a sign that said “Commanding the East, 10-5.” That was the record the Eagles had after winning that game against the Commanders by double digits. Daniels praising the Eagles fans is not a good look.

Washington hasn’t won the NFC East since 2020, when it still ended up with a 7-9 record. In the 2020s, the Commanders have gone to the NFL Playoffs twice. The franchise has struggled to keep success on a regular basis.

Daniels is in the eye of the storm

No one denies Jayden Daniels’ talent. He won a Heisman during his College Football days, he won Offensive Rookie of the Year, and he is seen as a franchise quarterback. However, he also has some doubts regarding his durability. In the end, the best ability is availability, and Daniels lost 10 games due to injuries this season, and when he played, his numbers weren’t better than his backup’s.

Daniels completed 60.6% of his passes for 1,262 yards and eight touchdowns to three interceptions. Mariota had a better completion than Daniels (61.2%), had more yards (1,695), more touchdowns (10), and a very similar passer rating. So, Daniels needs to prove he is the better and that he can stay healthy trhoughout the season.

The slate kicks off at Northwest Stadium, where the Washington Commanders will host the Dallas Cowboys in a head-to-head NFC East showdown. With both teams already eliminated from playoff contention, America’s Team will be led by veteran quarterback Dak Prescott, while the Commanders will turn to Josh Johnson under center following the absences of Jayden Daniels and Marcus Mariota.

Next up, the spotlight shifts to the NFC North. The Minnesota Vikings will host the Detroit Lions, who are still dreaming of a playoff berth. The home team will lean on Max Brosmer as its primary signal-caller, while Dan Campbell will once again put his trust in Jared Goff to lead Detroit in pursuit of a crucial victory.

The main stage of TNF will be set at Arrowhead Stadium, where the Kansas City Chiefs will host the AFC’s current No. 1 seed, the Denver Broncos. Andy Reid will be forced to fill the void left by Patrick Mahomes and Gardner Minshew, turning to Chris Oladokun under center, while the visitors will look to Bo Nix as their leading figure on the night.

Three starters sidelined by injury

This year’s NFL Christmas slate has lost a significant amount of star power due to a string of unfortunate quarterback injuries. The Kansas City Chiefs will be without Patrick Mahomes, who suffered a season-ending torn ACL in his left knee during a Week 15 matchup against the Chargers; the injury required surgery and has sidelined the three-time MVP for the remainder of the year.

Similarly, the Washington Commanders have officially shut down Jayden Daniels for the season after he reaggravated a dislocated elbow that had plagued him since mid-season.

Lastly, the Minnesota Vikings’ J.J. McCarthy was ruled out specifically for the holiday game after imaging revealed a hairline fracture in his right throwing hand, an injury sustained when he struck a defender’s helmet in a previous game. These absences mean all three Christmas matchups will feature backup signal-callers, shifting the focus from elite quarterback duels to a test of roster depth.

Next weekend’s visit to MetLife Stadium to face the Giants will take place without Daniels on the field, as the head coach himself confirmed to the media. Although there was no structural or bone damage in his elbow, the Commanders’ medical staff recommended holding him out in the short term and reassessing his situation next week.

Now, the question many are asking is whether the QB will actually return to action this season or if, on the contrary, his snaps for the remaining games are already over. Quinn chose to be cautious on the matter.

“As far as what decisions are ahead, we haven’t gone down that road,” the head coach Quinn said, via JP Finlay of NBC 4 Washington. “He’s working really hard to get back with the guys.”

What injury is Daniels dealing with?

Commanders QB Jayden Daniels suffered a dislocated left elbow late in the fourth quarter of the team’s loss to the Seattle Seahawks on November 2, 2025. The injury occurred when Daniels was sacked and landed awkwardly, attempting to brace his fall with his non-throwing arm, which caused the elbow to bend in an unnatural way. Initial reports later confirmed the dislocation, although X-rays came back negative for fractures.

Mariota set to start again in Washington

Marcus Mariota has put together a mixed season with the Commanders, showcasing some flashes of potential alongside struggles with turnovers. So far, he has recorded 1,389 passing yards and thrown 9 touchdowns, but has also been intercepted 7 times. His overall performance is reflected by a 55.2 Quarterback Rating (QBR), indicating a campaign marked by inconsistency.

What’s next for the Commanders?

The Washington Commanders face a challenging upcoming schedule dominated by NFC East rivals. Their next stretch of games includes a road trip to face the Giants, followed by back-to-back home games against the Eagles and the Cowboys. They will conclude this divisional run with a final road contest against the Eagles.

Jayden Daniels finally had a full practice after he was limited on Wednesday. This puts him in firm position to start against the Vikings. Daniels suffered a dislocated elbow in Week 9.

Daniels has missed six games this season. He has completed 62.5% of his passes for 1,184 yards and eight touchdowns with two interceptions. Daniels has a 94.4 passer rating this season in six games played.

Mariota has very similar stats

Mariota has completed 63.2% for 1,359 yards, nine touchdowns and six picks for an 87.1 passer rating. Without the picks, Mariota has put up very similar numbers to the ones Daniels has.

Also, both provide rushing ability but are susceptible to fumbles or a bit of recklessness. In the end, Mariota is a seasoned vet and not as big of a downgrade as some might think. Having said that, of course the Commanders would like to have their second-season quarterback starting games.

The Vikings also have a QB issue

The Vikings have their own world of trouble when it comes to quarterbacks. JJ McCarthy hasn’t been what they have hoped and he is not confirmed to be back this week.

However, the alternative is undrafted rookie year Max Brosmer, who debuted last week and threw four interceptions as his team scored a total of zero points. Hence, it’s a tough out for anyone under center representing Minnesota.

The game is significant because even though the Commanders enter Week 13 with a poor 3-8 record, the Broncos arrive on a formidable eight-game winning streak. Daniels’ presence on the field would have been crucial in trying to end that streak.

Compounding this, the Commanders are currently on a losing streak. While a playoff push is highly improbable, they need a couple more victories to avoid finishing the season with an abysmal record. Mariota is expected to contribute at least one win; the team currently sits last in the NFC East.

When could Daniels return to play?

According to one of the latest reports, there is a probability that Daniels could return for Week 14, a scenario mentioned by ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. The insider indicated that the quarterback’s return is a “realistic possibility.”

Daniels himself spoke about his status on November 25, offering an unclear date for his exact return: “If I’m back out there and I’m healthy and ready to go, I want to be out there.”

How has Mariota fared recently replacing Daniels?

In the last two games where Mariota had to step in for Daniels (against the Lions and Marlins), he has unfortunately not been able to lead the Commanders to a win. However, he has managed to throw three touchdowns and only one interception. While these are not elite stats, the Commanders’ offensive line has been disastrous this year.

As per the latest injury report from the Washington Commanders’ official website, Jayden Daniels has been ruled out for the game against the Lions. He is suffering from an elbow injury sustained during a collision in Week 9 against the Seattle Seahawks.

Daniels has participated in only six games this season for various reasons. For instance, in Week 8, he was sidelined due to a hamstring injury, and in Week 4, he missed the game against the Atlanta Falcons with a knee injury.

Given the circumstances, Daniels hasn’t been the decisive factor he was for the team last season. The lack of consistency and the array of issues he has faced this regular season are key reasons he hasn’t delivered at an elite level for the Commanders.

Daniels’ struggles this season

Analyzing the regular season statistics for Daniels, his basic passing metrics do not immediately signify any major issues. However, a deeper dive into the advanced stats reveals a concerning pattern emerging in his performance.

In comparison to last season, Daniels has already fumbled the ball 10 times during pass attempts, reaching half the total number of fumbles he had in all 17 games last season, despite having only played 6 games this year. Similarly, he has thrown the ball away 8 times this season, compared to 15 times in the entire previous season, indicating a troubling trend in his passing precision.

Uncertain player statuses ahead of Lions clash

As the Commanders prepare to face the formidable Detroit Lions, caution takes precedence, with several players listed as uncertain regarding their availability for today’s game. Out of these, only three players are officially designated as questionable.

Defensive tackle Eddie Goldman, along with safeties Quan Martin and Tyler Owens, have yet to have their participation confirmed against the Lions, who themselves will be missing six players, including Myles Frazier, who is sidelined with a knee injury.

What’s at the heart of it all? The dreaded injuries, with the Commanders being one of the teams hit hardest. The recent news of their star quarterback’s elbow injury casts serious doubt over the near future for a team that had higher hopes at the start of the season.

Deebo Samuel, one of the offensive players added to the team in the last offseason, didn’t hold back when addressing the recent struggles the team has faced in the past few weeks. Undoubtedly, with a healthy roster, the results might have been very different.

The former San Francisco 49ers wide receiver said that Jayden Daniel‘s injury “took all the air out of the ball”, per John Keim of ESPN. “It’s like, jeez, we can’t catch a break.”

What’s going on with Jayden Daniels?

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels will miss extended time after suffering a dislocated left elbow in Sunday’s game. While the injury looked gruesome and initially feared to be season-ending, the team received positive news: tests confirmed Daniels avoided ligament damage and will not require surgery.

The young QB will be ruled out for at least the next few games, but the non-surgical nature of the injury provides a slim lifeline for the Commanders, keeping the door open for a potential return later this season.

Injury wave hits the Commanders

The Washington Commanders’ 2025 campaign has been defined by a relentless wave of injuries that has decimated both sides of the ball. Most critically, quarterback Jayden Daniels has struggled to stay on the field, missing time with knee and hamstring issues before suffering a dislocated elbow that has sidelined him indefinitely.

He is joined on the sideline by star wide receiver Terry McLaurin (quad), whose consistent presence in the passing game has been sorely missed. Defensively, the team has also been hit hard, losing starting cornerback Marshon Lattimore for the season with a torn ACL, severely testing the depth of a unit already battling to keep opponents in check.

Dan Quinn faces a new headache heading into the upcoming game, as one of his top defensive players has been suspended. Frankie Luvu was handed a one-game suspension for repeated violations of the rule against low-hip tackles.

While the player is expected to appeal the suspension, if the appeal is denied he will not only miss the Week 10 matchup against the Lions but also forfeit a game check worth $508,333. His eventual return is anticipated during the international game against the Dolphins in Madrid.

“Washington Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu has been suspended without pay for one game for repeated violations of playing rules intended to protect the health and safety of players, including during Sunday’s game against the Seattle Seahawks,” reported the NFL.

Not the first time

The NFL has issued a one-game suspension to Washington Commanders linebacker Frankie Luvu for repeated violations of the league’s ban on the hip-drop tackle.

This disciplinary action, which sidelines Luvu for the crucial Week 10 game against the Detroit Lions, makes him the first player suspended under the new rule. Luvu had previously been fined on two separate occasions this season (after Weeks 4 and 8) for the dangerous tackling maneuver, leading the league to escalate the punishment for his third offense.

Week 10 brings plenty of absences

The Washington Commanders’ upcoming Week 10 game against the Detroit Lions looks increasingly challenging due to a depleted roster under head coach Dan Quinn. Commanders suffered multiple injuries in blowout loss to Seahawks, and the fallout continues, headlined by quarterback Jayden Daniels suffering a dislocated elbow, sidelining him indefinitely.

Adding to the defensive concerns, linebacker Frankie Luvu is suspended for repeated hip-drop tackle violations, while cornerback Marshon Lattimore (hamstring) is officially out. The absence of key players on both sides of the ball presents a significant hurdle as the team tries to rebound.

Hearts stopped at Northwestern Stadium as Daniels’ elbow bent unnaturally after making contact with the turf, leaving everyone in the stands stunned. While medical evaluations are still pending, the images of the injury were nothing short of alarming.

“QB Jayden Daniels, who left Sunday’s loss with his left arm immobilized, suffered a dislocated elbow and will have an MRI to determine how long he’s out, sources say,” the insider Ian Rapoport revealed via X.

Despite the situation, the reporter noted that the injury could have been far worse than it ultimately turned out to be. “The belief is it’s not as bad as it could’ve been. But Daniels will miss several games.”

Major loss for the defense

Daniels’ absence wasn’t the only setback for Dan Quinn’s team, as the defense has now been dealt a major blow. While medical evaluations are still pending, it’s believed that cornerback Marshon Lattimore may have torn his ACL, potentially ending his season.

“CB Marshon Lattimore, who left Sunday’s loss early, is feared to have torn his ACL, per me and @MikeGarafolo. He’ll have an MRI, but another significant injury from a rough Sunday night,” the insider Rapoport reported via @RapSheet.

Another nightmare in Washington

With Daniels and Lattimore already sidelined, the Commanders’ coach knows he will likely be without one of his wide receivers as well, potentially for the remainder of the season.

Luke McCaffrey, one of the team’s primary passing options at quarterback, broke his collarbone on one of the opening snaps against the Seahawks, and his participation this NFL season could now be seriously in jeopardy moving forward.

Rapoport stated: “Bad to worse: #Commanders WR and returner Luke McCaffrey broke his collarbone last night, per The Insiders, and is headed to Injured Reserve. Another blow on a bad night in Washington. It was the first play of the game, and now likely misses the season.”

Unfortunately for Dan Quinn, this key game will have to be played without his biggest star, as Jayden Daniels has once again been ruled out due to the hamstring injury he suffered back in Week 7 against the Cowboys. That means Marcus Mariota will get the start under center for the Commanders.

Week 8 of this NFL season shapes up as a pivotal one for Washington, as the Eagles have slowly started to pull away from their NFC East rivals. Any further slip-up could seriously jeopardize the Commanders’ hopes of staying in the hunt for a potential wild card spot.

The other piece of bad news for Quinn’s team is that standing across from them will be none other than Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs — perennial title contenders in recent years and home to one of the most explosive offenses in the league.

What injury is keeping Jayden Daniels out?

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels has been officially ruled out for the highly anticipated Monday Night Football matchup against the Kansas City Chiefs due to a hamstring injury.

Daniels, the reigning NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, suffered a low-grade strain in the third quarter of Washington’s Week 7 loss to the Dallas Cowboys this past Sunday. The injury occurred after Daniels was sacked and fumbled, immediately grabbing the back of his right leg as he limped off the field.

Although the injury is not considered long-term, the Commanders are taking a cautious approach, paving the way for veteran backup Marcus Mariota to make his third start of the season.

How much do the Commanders lose without Daniels?

Without starting quarterback Jayden Daniels, the Commanders’ offense takes a significant statistical hit. Daniels, who has a 97.7 passer rating this season, eight touchdowns, and averages 206.2 passing yards per game, is replaced by Marcus Mariota, whose rating dips to 85.8 with just three passing touchdowns and two interceptions on fewer attempts.

Furthermore, the team is 2-3 in Daniels’ starts compared to a 1-1 mark in Mariota’s two relief starts, highlighting the drop in play-making ability and overall offensive stability the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year brings to the field.