LANDOVER, Md. – During the matchup between the Washington Commanders and the Carolina Panthers on Sunday, rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels exited the game due to what has been identified as a rib injury by the team.

Daniels is now listed as questionable for a return to play.

In the game’s initial moments, he showcased his speed and agility by rushing for 46 yards on his team’s first offensive play. However, his situation took a turn when he sustained a significant blow after releasing a pass during the third down of the opening drive. The exact moment of injury remains unclear.

Following the hit, Daniels first went to the bench for a brief moment before transitioning to the blue medical tent for further examination. After briefly leaving the tent to rejoin the game, he was visibly frustrated, slamming his helmet on the ground before retreating back to the tent.

Ultimately, he departed from the sideline and headed down the tunnel towards the locker room for further assessment. In his place, veteran quarterback Marcus Mariota stepped in to lead the team.

Daniels, who was selected as the second overall pick from LSU and garnered the 2023 Heisman Trophy, had been viewed as a strong contender for the offensive rookie of the year award.