Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn has admitted he bears a portion of the blame for a serious ailment to the team’s signal-caller, Jayden Daniels.
Particulars of the Injury and Context
Daniels, who had among the best rookie campaigns of all time last season, sustained a dislocated left elbow in Sunday’s loss to the Seattle Seahawks. Although the quarterback throws with his dominant arm, the issue has left his season in doubt. The injury was serious enough that the TV coverage avoided showing replays and multiple athletes looked away as he was treated by team doctors.
Backlash and Leader’s Response
Quinn faced scrutiny as numerous believed the rookie should not have been on the playing surface to begin with. The incident occurred in the fourth quarter with the Washington behind 38-7, making a comeback improbable. It is typical in these situations for teams to insert their backup quarterback to avoid harm to their first-string player.
“I understand. I’ve been reflecting about it constantly, too, and, man, I missed it,” he said of his choice to leave Daniels in the match. “This is 100% on me.”
Fallout and Team Outlook
Mariota will be the Commanders’ starting quarterback going forward, but he will lead a team in disarray. After making the NFC championship game the prior year thanks to the rookie’s excellence, the team have struggled currently. They additionally saw injuries to defensive back Marshon Lattimore (torn ACL) and wide receiver Luke McCaffrey (collarbone fracture) 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 take a huge turnaround for the team to make the playoffs.
