Is Jayden Daniels playing today against the Bears? Exploring Commanders QB's injury status for Week 8

Modified Oct 27, 2024 16:20 GMT

NFL: Carolina Panthers at Washington Commanders - Source: Imagn — Is Jayden Daniels playing today against the Bears? Latest on Commanders QB's injury status for Week 8 (Source: Imagn)

Jayden Daniels' status for the Washington Commanders' Week 8 matchup against the Chicago Bears has been a major topic of discussion. The quarterback has been sidelined this week due to a rib injury, leaving fans wondering if he'll be able to suit up on Sunday.

There was a lot of concern around Daniels' injury status right up to Sunday morning given the severity of his injury. Daniels' mother Regina also offered an update on her son right after he went down with the injury in Week 7, allaying any fears of a long-term setback.

Heading into the Week 8 showdown against Chicago, it appears Daniels will be a game-time decision though there is growing optimism that he will play.

Looking to predict NFL playoff Scenarios? Try our NFL Playoff Predictor for real-time simulations and stay ahead of the game!

Is Jayden Daniels playing today vs Bears in Week 8?

Washington Commanders QB Jayden Daniels (Source: Imagn)

As things stand, Daniels is questionable for the Commanders' Week 8 matchup against the Bears. The quarterback was limited in practice on Friday after missing the previous two days, but according to reports, there's still a chance he could play against Chicago this weekend.

On Friday, Commanders' coach Dan Quinn addressed Daniels' return to practice, saying:

"He (Daniels) really pushed it today. We'll let our eyes decide how he responds over the next 48 hours. That'll guide us and we'll make the best decision for him and the team."

UPDATE: Per NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport and ESPN insider Adam Schefter, Daniels will go through pre-game warmups to decide his gameday injury status. However, both insiders believe he will play against the Bears as the franchise chases its first 6-2 start in 16 years.

A win today will also give Washington a 4-0 home record to start the year. The last time they achieved this feat was in 2005.

Also read: Latest on Zay Flowers' injury status for Week 8

Expand Tweet

Meanwhile, Daniels admitted to feeling good but remained uncertain about his availability to play against the Bears.

"I want to play but it's not my decision," Daniels said. "It feels better, but I've still got some time. I've still got some marks I need to hit so they feel comfortable putting me out there."

Daniels suffered a rib injury in the first quarter of the matchup against the Carolina Panthers in Week 7. He was tackled by two defenders and subsequently exited the game, replaced by Marcus Mariota.

The Commanders are expected to make a decision on Daniels' availability for Sunday's matchup against the Bears just before kick-off.

Daniels has enjoyed a fabulous rookie season thus far, completing 127 of 168 passes for 1,410 yards, six touchdowns, and two interceptions. He has also rushed for 372 yards and four touchdowns on 66 attempts in seven games, contributing to Washington's 5-2 record.