If it were up to Jayden Daniels, it sounds like he’d suit up for Sunday’s Washington Commanders game against the Atlanta Falcons.
The Washington quarterback spoke with reporters Wednesday after practicing for the first time since missing Sunday’s win over the Las Vegas Raiders with what’s been reported as a sprained knee. He says he feels well enough to play this weekend.
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But it’s not up to him. That decision will be made by Washington’s medical staff. And that call has yet to come.
“It’s up to the doctors, that’s not my decision,” Daniels said of his playing status. “I feel good.”
Daniels was asked specifically how much running and cutting he’s been able to do while practicing in a limited capacity.
“Enough to feel good if I play on Sunday,” Daniels continued. “Like I said, it’s not my decision.”
Will Jayden Daniels play on Sunday?
(Patrick McDermott via Getty Images)
Daniels practiced with a brace. He doesn’t know yet if he’d need to wear one in a game if he plays Sunday. But he reiterated that he feels fine.
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Factors to consider in Daniels’ decision
So that’s certainly good news for the Commanders and their fans hoping to see Daniels back on the field against the Falcons. And it sounds like his condition has improved from last week.
Daniels reportedly had no issues running or throwing last week, but was held out because he felt discomfort when moving laterally. That doesn’t appear to be an issue any more.
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“I’m myself,” Daniels said when asked if he feels any level of discomfort.
But, as Daniels noted, it’s not his decision. And the Commanders aren’t going to take any necessary chances with the health of their young star quarterback. Or they shouldn’t, at least.
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Daniels represents the present and long-term future hope of Washington returning to consistent competitive relevance for the first time since the early 1990s. Washington stunned the NFL with a trip to the NFC championship game in Daniels’ rookie season, and the hopes in Washington are that he can continue to keep deep playoff runs in play.
They’re 2-1 and found competent quarterback play from backup Mariota in last week’s win over the Raiders. If Daniels is ready to go against the Falcons he will. But if there’s risk of notable further damage to his knee, the Commanders should make the prudent decision and hold him out, even if Daniels feels like he’s ready.
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