The Washington Commanders entered their Week Three contest with the Las Vegas without quarterback Jayden Daniels, who missed the game with a right knee sprain. Reserve quarterback Marcus Mariota filled in for Daniels, leading Washington to a 41-24 win over Las Vegas. The Commanders’ multi faceted running game paced the offense, rushing for 201 yards, with Mariota and running backs Bill Croskey-Merritt and Jeremy McNichols each rushing for a touchdown. The defense sacked Raiders’ quarterback Geno Smith five times. And for extra measure, rookie wide receiver Jaylin Lane returned a punt 90 yards for a touchdown. Washington’s convincing victory over the Raiders was the most complete victory of the young 2025 season.
Unfortunately for the Commanders, their victory over the Raiders came at a hefty price. Wide receiver Terry McLaurin left the game in the second half with a quadriceps injury. Starting cornerback Marshon Lattimore sustained a concussion, putting his status for playing in the future in doubt considering he is now in the NFL’s concussion protocol. Rookie cornerback Trey Amos was also unable to finish the game, as he sustained a calf injury. Making matters worse, safety Will Harris sustained a fractured fibula. Harris’ injury suggests that his season might be over.
Washington Commanders’ fans can take solace in the fact that Mariota has the skill and experience to guide the offense in Daniels’ absence. It’s unclear how much more time Daniels will miss while nursing his injury. It’s also unclear if McLaurin and Amos will be available for the Commanders’ next game against the Atlanta Falcons. Commanders’ fans hope that Washington’s depth at wide receiver, cornerback, and safety can step up and provide stability at their respective positions.