The Washington Commanders face a significant setback due to the dislocated left elbow of their starting quarterback, Jayden Daniels. Specialists will examine MRI results to decide the next steps. A source confirmed Daniels will miss Sunday’s game against the Seattle Seahawks, with Marcus Mariota stepping in as the starter.
Interest heightens as the Seahawks may see their own starting quarterback, Sam Darnold, return. His participation depends on practice performance. Meanwhile, Daniels consults multiple medical professionals for opinions.
“He had imaging done today,” explained Commanders coach Dan Quinn. “He’ll see specialists early this week, Tuesday and Wednesday, and then we’ll go through the process.” Quinn refrains from giving a timeline, as outcomes could vary. Options range from surgery, potentially ending Daniels’ season, to a rehabilitation program similar to last year’s effort to avoid surgery.
Previously, Daniels missed three games and created concerns on his return, further aggravating the injury in Week 14. This led to his rest in the final four games of last season. Now, Commanders must consider whether repeating the same strategy will yield different long-term results.
Elbow dislocations rarely require surgery unless the joint maintains instability or severe damage occurs to ligaments. Such outcomes necessitate surgical intervention despite non-surgical options like a closed reduction.
With Daniels sidelined, the Commanders, currently 0-2, adapt their strategies. The absence of Daniels, known for his arm strength and mobility, adds pressure on the team and coaching staff as they aim to stabilize their season.