Commanders Face Injury Crisis as Daniels Sees Specialist and Cross Ruled Out

Key points

• Jayden Daniels is seeing a specialist for his dislocated left elbow, which occurred on the final play of the first half in the loss to Dallas. Quinn declined to provide a medical update or return timeline.
• Safety Nick Cross is ruled out for the Week 3 game against Seattle after suffering an internal injury against Dallas. He was hospitalized overnight but has since returned home.
• Marcus Mariota will start at quarterback for the Commanders’ first home game, with rookie Athan Kaliakmanis serving as his backup. The team is not pursuing a veteran quarterback signing at this time.
• Right guard Sam Cosmi remains in the concussion protocol after a hit from rookie running back Kaytron Allen. He must be cleared by Friday to potentially play.
• Left tackle Brandon Coleman suffered a finger injury but is expected to return. Defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw (shoulder), tight end Chig Okonkwo (hamstring), and linebacker Frankie Luvu (groin) are currently rehabbing.

Background

The Commanders are 0-2 after losses to the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys. Daniels previously dislocated the same elbow in November 2025 against Seattle, missing four games before returning with a brace. The team’s defense has forced zero turnovers through two weeks, a concern highlighted by Quinn.

How outlets are covering it

Hogs Haven and USA Today emphasize the uncertainty surrounding Daniels’ timeline, noting he is seeing multiple specialists. The Washington Post provides historical context on his 2025 injury, suggesting a potential return in November if he misses a month. All sources agree that Mariota is the clear starter, with The Post highlighting his strong second-half performance against Dallas. Hogs Haven notes the team’s upbeat mood despite the 0-2 record, while The Post focuses on the defensive struggles against Dallas.

Why it matters

The absence of Daniels and Cross significantly impacts the Commanders’ offensive and defensive capabilities. Mariota’s performance will determine if the team can remain competitive while Daniels recovers. The injury pile-up also raises questions about the team’s depth and ability to sustain a season-long campaign.

What to watch

The Commanders will play the Seattle Seahawks on Sunday. Cosmi’s status will be determined by Friday. The team will continue to monitor Daniels’ progress with specialists, with a potential return window opening in November if he follows a similar timeline to his 2025 injury.