Posted on Dec 07

Commanders' Daniels, Ertz leave game injured in 31-0 loss to Vikings

Posted Dec 7, 2025

The Washington Commanders faced a disheartening 31-0 defeat against the Minnesota Vikings, compounded by injuries to key players Jayden Daniels and Zach Ertz.

Why it matters: This loss not only underscores the Commanders' struggles this season but also raises concerns about the health of their starting quarterback and veteran tight end.

The Commanders are already grappling with a challenging campaign, and injuries to pivotal players could jeopardize any chance of a late-season resurgence.
With Daniels and Ertz sidelined, the team may need to rely heavily on backup players, impacting their offensive strategy moving forward.

What’s new: Jayden Daniels exited the game with an injury in the third quarter after attempting to chase down linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel following an interception.

Prior to his exit, Daniels had completed 9 of 20 passes for 78 yards and one interception.
This marks another setback for Daniels, who has struggled with injuries throughout the season, having missed three games due to a dislocated elbow just weeks earlier.

Yes, but: While Marcus Mariota stepped in after Daniels' departure, he faced significant challenges against a Vikings defense that has been formidable this season.

Mariota's performance will be critical as he takes the reins of an offense that has already been inconsistent.
The transition from a starting quarterback to a backup can disrupt the rhythm and timing of the offense, especially in high-pressure situations.

What to watch: The immediate focus will be on the severity of the injuries sustained by both Daniels and Ertz, especially with the upcoming schedule.

Ertz was ruled out with a knee injury after being hit by safety Jay Ward while reaching for a pass late in the third quarter.
Ertz has been a reliable target this season, recording 49 receptions for 493 yards and four touchdowns, making his absence particularly impactful for the passing game.

The bottom line: As the Commanders navigate the aftermath of this loss, they must address both the physical toll of injuries and the mental strain of a disappointing season.

With only a few games left, the team's ability to regroup and adapt is paramount.
Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring updates on both players' conditions as the Commanders prepare for their next matchup.

Zoom Out: The Commanders’ struggle against the Vikings highlights broader issues within the organization, specifically regarding depth and injury prevention measures.

As the NFL season progresses, the impact of these injuries may resonate beyond just this game, influencing the direction of the Commanders' franchise for years to come.

Commanders' Daniels, Ertz leave game injured in 31-0 loss to Vikings

Alex Parker

Posted Dec 7, 2025

The Washington Commanders faced a disheartening 31-0 defeat against the Minnesota Vikings, compounded by injuries to key players Jayden Daniels and Zach Ertz.

Why it matters: This loss not only underscores the Commanders' struggles this season but also raises concerns about the health of their starting quarterback and veteran tight end.

The Commanders are already grappling with a challenging campaign, and injuries to pivotal players could jeopardize any chance of a late-season resurgence.

With Daniels and Ertz sidelined, the team may need to rely heavily on backup players, impacting their offensive strategy moving forward.

What’s new: Jayden Daniels exited the game with an injury in the third quarter after attempting to chase down linebacker Andrew Van Ginkel following an interception.

Prior to his exit, Daniels had completed 9 of 20 passes for 78 yards and one interception.

This marks another setback for Daniels, who has struggled with injuries throughout the season, having missed three games due to a dislocated elbow just weeks earlier.

Yes, but: While Marcus Mariota stepped in after Daniels' departure, he faced significant challenges against a Vikings defense that has been formidable this season.

Mariota's performance will be critical as he takes the reins of an offense that has already been inconsistent.

The transition from a starting quarterback to a backup can disrupt the rhythm and timing of the offense, especially in high-pressure situations.

What to watch: The immediate focus will be on the severity of the injuries sustained by both Daniels and Ertz, especially with the upcoming schedule.

Ertz was ruled out with a knee injury after being hit by safety Jay Ward while reaching for a pass late in the third quarter.

Ertz has been a reliable target this season, recording 49 receptions for 493 yards and four touchdowns, making his absence particularly impactful for the passing game.

The bottom line: As the Commanders navigate the aftermath of this loss, they must address both the physical toll of injuries and the mental strain of a disappointing season.

With only a few games left, the team's ability to regroup and adapt is paramount.

Fans and analysts alike will be closely monitoring updates on both players' conditions as the Commanders prepare for their next matchup.

Zoom Out: The Commanders’ struggle against the Vikings highlights broader issues within the organization, specifically regarding depth and injury prevention measures.

As the NFL season progresses, the impact of these injuries may resonate beyond just this game, influencing the direction of the Commanders' franchise for years to come.