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Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels took a significant step toward returning to game action on Wednesday, practicing fully for the first time since injuring his elbow in Week 2. Head coach Dan Quinn told reporters he expects Daniels to start this weekend against the New York Giants, assuming no setbacks occur in the coming days.
Daniels, who spoke with the media after practice, expressed a pragmatic approach to protecting his injured elbow. "I'm gonna embrace the brace," he said. The second-year signal-caller's return would be a major boost for a Commanders offense that has been inconsistent in his absence.
While Daniels' progress is encouraging, the team's overall health remains a concern. Washington listed 23 players on its Wednesday injury report, a staggering number that underscores the physical toll of the early season. Among those not practicing were wide receivers Terry McLaurin and Stefon Diggs, both sidelined with hamstring injuries. Their status for Sunday's NFC East clash is uncertain.
Safety Nick Cross returned as a full participant, providing some good news for the secondary. However, quarterback Marcus Mariota, defensive end Charles Omenihu, safety Percy Butler, and linebacker Tyler Owens also missed practice. Quinn later clarified that the team does not currently plan to place Mariota on injured reserve despite his knee injury.
Several players were limited in Wednesday's session, including offensive lineman Sam Cosmi, running back Rachaad White, linebacker Frankie Luvu, safety Sonny Styles, and tight end Chig Okonkwo. Additionally, Trey Amos, Deatrich Wise Jr., and Jeremy McNichols were officially designated to return to practice but were limited, opening their 21-day activation windows.
In roster moves, the Commanders signed safety Darren Hall, wide receiver Nick DeGennaro, and outside linebacker T.J. Maguranyanga to the practice squad while releasing defensive tackle Jeffrey M'Ba. The team also worked out former UFL MVP quarterback Jack Plummer but did not sign him.
Meanwhile, the Giants have their own injury issues. Malik Nabers, Andrew Thomas, Najee Harris, Jason Pinnock, and Chauncey Golston all missed practice on Wednesday, though their availability for Sunday is not yet ruled out. Running back Cam Skattebo and tight end Isaiah Likely were limited for New York.
As the Commanders navigate their injury situation, they also continue to address recurring penalty problems that have plagued them in recent weeks. The team has talked about fixing the issue, but the numbers suggest it is worsening. Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and his staff are undoubtedly emphasizing discipline as they prepare for a critical divisional matchup.
With the season just four games old, Washington still has time to define its identity. Roles are evolving, young players are being thrust into larger responsibilities, and some position groups have yet to meet expectations. A win over the Giants would go a long way toward stabilizing the team's trajectory.
Key Analysis
Daniels' return to full practice is a promising sign for a Commanders team that has struggled to find consistency without him. However, the sheer volume of injuries—particularly to key skill-position players like McLaurin and Diggs—could limit the offense's effectiveness even with Daniels under center. The Giants, dealing with their own injuries, present an opportunity for Washington to secure a crucial NFC East victory. How the team manages its penalty issues and integrates returning players will likely determine the outcome.
Originally reported by headtopics.