Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn has admitted he bears a portion of the fault for a major ailment to the team’s signal-caller, Daniels.
Details of the Injury and Context
Daniels, who enjoyed among the best rookie campaigns of all time the previous year, sustained a dislocated elbow joint in the Sunday loss to the Seahawks. Although Daniels passes with his dominant arm, the injury has placed his season in doubt. The injury was serious enough that the television broadcast avoided showing replays and several athletes looked away as Daniels was attended to by medical staff.
Criticism and Coach’s Reaction
Quinn faced criticism as numerous felt the rookie should not have been on the field to begin with. The injury occurred in the final period with the Commanders behind 38-7, rendering a recovery unlikely. It is common in these circumstances for teams to put in their backup quarterback to avoid injuries to their starter.
“I get that. I’ve been thinking about it nonstop, too, and, man, I missed it,” he said of his choice to keep Jayden in the game. “This is 100% my fault.”
Aftermath and Team Prospects
Marcus Mariota will be the team’s starting quarterback going forward, but he will guide a team in turmoil. After making the conference title game the prior year behind the rookie’s brilliance, the franchise have faced difficulties this season. They additionally lost defensive back Lattimore (ACL tear) and pass-catcher McCaffrey (broken collarbone) on game day, and have a host of other key players on injured reserve. The Commanders are three wins and six losses so far, and it would require a massive turnaround for the club to make the postseason.
