(670 The Score) The Commanders plan to take their decision on rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels' playing status right up to 90 minutes before kickoff against the Bears on Sunday afternoon.
Daniels is considered a game-time decision as he works back from a ribs injury suffered last Sunday, coach Dan Quinn told reporters Friday. Daniels returned to practice Friday after missing the previous two days.
Daniels, 23, was the No. 2 overall pick in the NFL Draft after the Bears took quarterback Caleb Williams at No. 1 overall. Daniels has thrown for 1,410 yards, six touchdowns and two interceptions in seven games while also rushing for 372 yards and four scores. The Commanders will turn to veteran backup Marcus Mariota if Daniels can't play.
Mariota, 30, was the No. 2 overall pick in the 2015 NFL Draft. He threw for 205 yards and two touchdowns while filling in for the injured Daniels on Sunday.
Mariota has played in 92 career NFL games, making 74 starts, across 10 seasons in the league. He last faced the Bears in 2022 as the Falcons’ starting quarterback, leading Atlanta to a 27-24 victory.
The Bears will be without safety Jaquan Brisker (concussion) and nickel cornerback Kyler Gordon (hamstring) on Sunday.
Kickoff between the Bears (4-2) and Commanders (5-2) comes at 3:25 p.m. CT on Sunday from Washington's Northwest Stadium.
Chris Emma covers the Bears, Chicago’s sports scene and more for 670TheScore.com. Follow him on Twitter @CEmma670.