### Jayden Daniels Exits Commanders' Game against Panthers Due to Rib Injury

LANDOVER, Md. - In an unfortunate turn of events for the Washington Commanders, their promising rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels was sidelined with a rib injury during the game against the Carolina Panthers on Sunday. Daniels reappeared on the sideline at halftime, dressed in sweatpants and a hoodie, with his helmet conspicuously absent, signaling he would not be returning to the game. The Commanders were dominating the scoreboard, leading 27-0, when the decision to rule Daniels out was announced.

On the Commanders' very first offensive play, Daniels ran for an impressive 46 yards but endured several hits during the opening drive. Among these impacts was a significant head-over-feet tumble, although it wasn't immediately clear which hit caused his injury. The No. 2 overall pick from LSU and the 2023 Heisman Trophy winner showed visible signs of discomfort as he left the field after completing a third-down pass, preceding Austin Seibert's field goal that extended Washington's lead to 10-0.

After a brief respite on the bench, Daniels entered the blue medical tent for further evaluation. Despite his initial pain, he made an effort to rejoin the action after Andy Dalton's second interception of the first quarter. Daniels briefly exited the tent to test a few passes on the field, only to return to the sideline and throw his helmet in frustration before heading back to the tent.

Ultimately, Daniels was escorted off the field and into the locker room, leaving veteran quarterback Marcus Mariota to step in. Mariota proved effective, leading a drive that concluded with a touchdown run by Brian Robinson Jr., boosting the lead to 17-0.

Entering this game, Daniels was a strong contender for offensive rookie of the year honors, having thrown for 1,404 yards, rushed for 322 yards, and accounted for 10 touchdowns in his first six games. His absence represents a significant blow to the Commanders, who will now rely on their depth to maintain their early-season success.