The Washington Commanders will close out Week 2 of the preseason under the bright lights of Monday Night Football, taking on the Cincinnati Bengals. And while there are plenty of storylines to watch, one question stands above the rest: Will Jayden Daniels finally step onto the field?
Will Jayden Daniels Play in Week 2 of the Preseason?
Fans didn’t get to see Daniels in action last week against the New England Patriots, as he stayed on the sideline while backups handled the reps. But this week feels different. Head coach Dan Quinn made it clear he plans to give Daniels and the first-team offense a chance to get their feet wet, even if it’s only for a few series.
“It won’t be for very long,” Quinn said, but it should be enough to give Washington fans a small preview of what’s ahead.
Quinn said he would like to see Jayden and the starters for “a few series” against the Bengals. Added that it won’t be for very long
— Zach Selby (@ZachSelbyWC) August 16, 2025
Daniels sees this as a necessary step. The second-year quarterback finished a debut campaign that fundamentally altered the team’s course. After being selected with the second pick in 2024, Daniels led the Commanders to a 12-5 finish and their first NFC Championship Game appearance since 1991. Considering the squad had finished 4-13 the previous season, it was a huge turnaround.
That success has raised expectations heading into 2025. With big-name additions like Deebo Samuel and Laremy Tunsil, the Commanders believe they have the talent to take the next step. Daniels has been vocal about building on last year’s momentum, showing confidence while keeping a team-first mindset.
Terry McLaurin Drama Clouds Commanders’ 2025 Outlook
Washington isn’t entering this preseason without distractions. One of the main storylines in training camp has been receiver Terry McLaurin’s contract holdout. If he doesn’t report, Daniels could be without his top target for the time being. Daniels has supported McLaurin while acknowledging the predicament, saying he understands his teammate must act in his own best interests. Until there’s a resolution, the Commanders will have to lean on their depth.
As for Monday night, fans shouldn’t expect Daniels to light up the scoreboard. Preseason snaps are about rhythm, timing, and shaking off rust, not chasing highlights. Even so, after sitting out Week 1, seeing the young QB take the field will be a welcome sight. The Commanders know their future rests on Daniels’ shoulders, and giving him a chance to get comfortable before Week 1 against the Giants is the real goal.
Daniels is expected to play, at least for a short stretch. For Washington fans, that glimpse may be enough to spark excitement for what could be another special season.
