Jayden Daniels Likely to Play in Week 8 Despite Rib Injury

Washington Commanders rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels is expected to play in Week 8 against the Chicago Bears, despite being listed as questionable due to a rib injury. According to league sources, all signs point to Daniels suiting up for the game, although the final decision will be made based on how he feels during pregame warmups on Sunday.

Daniels, who is the No. 2 overall pick in this year’s draft, has been dealing with the rib injury he sustained on his first play from scrimmage in the previous week’s victory over the Panthers. He did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday but participated as a limited participant on Friday and went through the team’s walk-through practice on Saturday.

The Commanders’ decision not to elevate a quarterback from the practice squad to the active roster for Week 8 suggests that they are confident in Daniels’ ability to play. If Daniels cannot start, Marcus Mariota is set to take his place, with Jeff Driskel also available on the 53-man roster.

The game against the Bears holds significant importance for the Commanders, who are currently in first place in the NFC East with a 5-2 record. It will also feature a matchup between this season’s top two draft picks, with Daniels facing off against Chicago quarterback Caleb Williams.