All signs point to Washington Commanders rookie quarterback Jaden Daniels playing against the Chicago Bears on Sunday, league sources told ESPN.
Managers will need to gauge Daniels’ mood during Sunday’s pregame warm-up before making a final decision on whether he can start. But one team official told ESPN: “He’s a tough guy.”
If Daniels can overcome his rib injury and play as he intends to, there will be a battle between Daniels and this season’s No. 1 and No. 2 draft picks, Chicago quarterback Caleb Williams. Probably.
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Daniels is officially listed as questionable for Sunday’s home game against the Bears. The Heisman Trophy winner did not practice Wednesday or Thursday, but participated on a limited basis Friday and held a walk-through practice for Washington on Saturday.
Daniels is said to be aware of the importance and importance of the game against Williams and what it means for Washington’s season. The Commanders (5-2) enter Sunday in first place in the NFC East, a half-game behind the Philadelphia Eagles (4-2).
“He would want to play even if he lost his right leg,” a team source told ESPN.
Commanders coach Dan Quinn said Friday that Daniels “did a really good job” and that the organization “will leave it to us to see how Daniels responds over the next 48 hours.”
“That’s going to guide us and we’re going to make the decision that’s best for him and the team,” Quinn said Friday.
Daniels said Friday that he feels good and wants to play, but acknowledged “that’s not my decision.”
Daniels injured his ribs on the first play from scrimmage in last Sunday’s win over the Carolina Panthers. Marcus Mariota took his place and completed 18 of 23 passes for 205 yards and two touchdowns.
ESPN’s John Keim contributed to this report.
