Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn has admitted he shares a portion of the fault for a major injury to the team’s quarterback, Daniels.
Particulars of the Harm and Situation
Jayden Daniels, who had one of the greatest rookie campaigns in history the previous year, sustained a displaced left elbow in Sunday’s loss to the Seahawks. Although Daniels throws with his right arm, the injury has left his campaign uncertain. The condition was serious enough that the TV coverage did not show replays and multiple athletes turned away as Daniels was attended to by medical staff.
Criticism and Coach’s Response
Coach Quinn came under scrutiny as many felt Daniels should not have been on the field in the first place. The incident happened in the final period with the Commanders behind 38-7, rendering a comeback improbable. It is common in these situations for clubs to put in their backup quarterback to prevent injuries to their starter.
“I understand. I’ve been thinking about it constantly, too, and, man, I missed it,” Quinn remarked of his choice to leave Daniels in the game. “This is 100% my fault.”
Aftermath and Team Prospects
Mariota will be the Commanders’ starting quarterback from now on, but he will lead a team in disarray. Following reaching the conference title game the prior year thanks to the rookie’s brilliance, the team have struggled this season. They additionally lost defensive back Marshon Lattimore (torn ACL) and pass-catcher Luke McCaffrey (collarbone fracture) on game day, and have a number of other key players on the injury list. The Commanders are 3-6 on the season, and it would require a huge reversal for the team to reach the playoffs.
