Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels is not playing today against the Indianapolis Colts in the 2026 NFL Week 4 London game as he continues to recover from a dislocated left elbow.
The Commanders officially ruled Daniels out for the matchup, meaning Marcus Mariota will start at quarterback when Washington faces Indianapolis at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London.
Why Is Jayden Daniels Not Playing Today?
Daniels is sidelined because of the left elbow injury he suffered during Washington’s Week 2 loss to the Dallas Cowboys.
The injury is to Daniels’ non-throwing arm, but Washington has remained cautious with its franchise quarterback, especially given his previous issues with the same elbow.
There had been optimism that Daniels could return against Indianapolis. He traveled with the Commanders to London and participated on a limited basis in practice during the week while wearing a substantial brace on his left arm.
However, Washington ultimately decided Daniels was not ready to return to game action.
Jayden Daniels Practiced Before Colts Game
One encouraging development for the Commanders was Daniels’ ability to get back onto the practice field.
Daniels was a limited participant throughout the week, providing an indication that his recovery is progressing. However, Washington wants him to demonstrate that he can handle a complete workload before putting him back into an NFL game.
Rather than rushing Daniels back for an international matchup, the Commanders are giving his elbow additional time to recover.
Who Is Starting for the Commanders vs. Colts?
With Daniels unavailable, Marcus Mariota will start at quarterback for Washington against Indianapolis.
Mariota is coming off an impressive performance in Washington’s 33-31 Week 3 victory over the Seattle Seahawks, when he threw three touchdown passes.
His performance gives the Commanders an experienced option under center while Daniels continues his rehabilitation.
When Will Jayden Daniels Return?
Daniels appears to be getting closer to returning.
His participation in practice ahead of the Colts game is an encouraging sign, but Washington has not committed to an exact return date.
Week 5 could become a potential target if Daniels continues progressing and is able to participate fully in practice. His availability will ultimately depend on how his elbow responds over the coming days.
Commanders vs. Colts London Game Information
Matchup: Indianapolis Colts vs. Washington Commanders
Week: 2026 NFL Week 4
Date: Sunday, October 4, 2026
Kickoff: 9:30 a.m. ET
Location: Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London, England
Commanders starting QB: Marcus Mariota
Jayden Daniels status: Out — left elbow
Bottom Line
Jayden Daniels is not playing against the Colts today because he is still recovering from a dislocated left elbow.
Daniels has returned to limited practice and traveled with Washington to London, but the Commanders are taking a cautious approach with their starting quarterback.
As a result, Marcus Mariota will lead the Commanders against the Colts in the 2026 NFL Week 4 London game, while Daniels continues working toward his return.