The Commanders leader Dan Quinn has stated he bears some the fault for a serious ailment to the team’s quarterback, Daniels.
Particulars of the Injury and Context
Daniels, who enjoyed one of the greatest rookie campaigns in history the previous year, suffered a displaced left elbow in the Sunday loss to the Seahawks. Even though the quarterback throws with his right arm, the issue has placed his season in doubt. The injury was serious enough that the television broadcast did not show replays and multiple players looked away as he was attended to by team doctors.
Criticism and Coach’s Response
Coach Quinn came under criticism as numerous believed Daniels ought not to have been on the playing surface in the first place. The injury happened in the final period with the Commanders behind 38-7, making a comeback improbable. It is typical in such circumstances for teams to put in their reserve QB to avoid harm to their first-string player.
“I get that. I’ve been reflecting about it nonstop, too, and, wow, I erred,” he said of his choice to keep Daniels in the game. “That is 100% my fault.”
Aftermath and Team Outlook
Mariota will be the team’s starting quarterback going forward, but he will lead a roster in turmoil. Following making the NFC championship game the prior year thanks to the rookie’s brilliance, the franchise have struggled this season. They also lost cornerback Marshon 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 3-6 on the season, and it would take a massive turnaround for the team to make the postseason.
