Commanders Second-Year QB Returns From Injury and Makes NFL History in 31–20 Win

Inglewood, CA – October 5, 2025

The NFL witnessed history on Sunday night as the Washington Commanders stunned the Los Angeles Chargers 31–20 behind the electrifying return of their rookie quarterback,

Jayden Daniels. After missing one game with a neck injury, the 24-year-old phenom didn’t just come back — he took over, delivering a performance that may define the first chapter of his young career.

The atmosphere inside SoFi Stadium shifted from cautious optimism to disbelief as Daniels, wearing his trademark calm smile, carved up the Chargers’ defense with a mix of poise and explosiveness rarely seen from a rookie. His stat line told part of the story — 21 completions on 27 attempts for 278 yards, three passing touchdowns, and another score on the ground — but the way he commanded the field told the rest.

Daniels became the first rookie quarterback in NFL history to record three games with at least three passing touchdowns and one rushing touchdown in a single season, an achievement that places his name alongside the likes of Cam Newton and Robert Griffin III — and already ahead in efficiency. The Commanders didn’t just get their starter back; they got a leader who plays like he’s been here for years.

Every drive felt like a highlight reel. Whether it was the perfectly timed 26-yard touchdown to Terry McLaurin, or the third-quarter scramble where he spun out of a collapsing pocket and sprinted 18 yards into the end zone, Daniels seemed to play the game at a different speed.

“This wasn’t about proving I’m healthy,” he said postgame, his jersey still caked in turf. “It was about proving that I can lead — and that Washington’s ready to fight every week.”

Head coach Dan Quinn could hardly contain his pride afterward. “What Jayden did tonight was special,” Quinn said. “He’s got that mix of intelligence, composure, and fire that lifts everyone around him. You can feel the whole sideline believe when he takes the field.”

Veteran wide receiver Terry McLaurin, who hauled in one of Daniels’ touchdowns, echoed that sentiment. He called the rookie’s presence “transformational,” saying, “When he’s in the huddle, we know anything’s possible. Jayden doesn’t just move the chains — he moves the energy.”

The Commanders’ defense also delivered, forcing two turnovers and limiting Justin Herbert to short gains throughout the second half. But the night belonged to Daniels, who reminded everyone why Washington invested its future in him. With each throw, each run, and each spark of leadership, he pushed the Commanders further from rebuilding — and closer to relevance.

As the final whistle blew and the scoreboard flashed 31–20, Jayden Daniels raised his helmet toward the traveling Washington fans, soaking in the moment. It wasn’t just a comeback — it was a statement. The Commanders have their quarterback of the future, and the future might be arriving faster than anyone expected.