Washington Commanders leader Dan Quinn has admitted he bears some the fault for a serious injury to the squad’s quarterback, Daniels.
Details of the Injury and Context
Daniels, who enjoyed one of the greatest first-year performances in history last season, sustained a dislocated elbow joint in the Sunday defeat to the Seattle Seahawks. Even though Daniels passes with his dominant arm, the injury has left his campaign uncertain. The condition was significant enough that the TV coverage avoided showing replays and several players turned away as Daniels was treated by medical staff.
Backlash and Coach’s Response
Quinn faced criticism as numerous believed the rookie should not have been on the playing surface to begin with. The injury happened in the final period with the Commanders trailing 38-7, rendering a recovery improbable. It is common in such circumstances for teams to insert their backup quarterback to avoid injuries to their starter.
“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. “That is 100% my fault.”
Fallout and Squad Outlook
Mariota will be the Commanders’ starting quarterback going forward, but he will guide a team in turmoil. Following making the NFC championship game the prior year behind Daniels’s brilliance, the franchise have struggled this season. They additionally lost cornerback Lattimore (ACL tear) and wide receiver McCaffrey (collarbone fracture) on game day, and have a number of other starters on injured reserve. The Commanders are 3-6 on the season, and it would require a huge reversal for the team to reach the postseason.
