The Commanders head coach Dan Quinn has admitted he bears a portion of the fault for a serious ailment to the squad’s quarterback, Daniels.
Details of the Injury and Context
Daniels, who had one of the greatest rookie campaigns in history last season, sustained a dislocated elbow joint in the Sunday defeat to the Seattle Seahawks. Although Daniels throws with his dominant arm, the injury has left his campaign uncertain. The injury was significant enough that the television broadcast did not show replays and several players turned away as Daniels was treated by medical staff.
Criticism and Coach’s Response
Coach Quinn came under criticism as numerous believed the rookie should not have been on the playing surface in the first place. The injury happened in the fourth quarter with the Commanders behind 38-7, rendering a comeback improbable. It is common in these circumstances for teams to put in their reserve QB to prevent injuries to their first-string player.
“I get that. I’ve been thinking about it constantly, too, and, wow, I missed it,” Quinn said of his decision to leave Daniels in the match. “That is 100% my fault.”
Aftermath and Team Outlook
Mariota will be the Commanders’ primary QB from now on, but he will lead a team in turmoil. After reaching the conference title game last season behind the rookie’s brilliance, the team have faced difficulties currently. They additionally saw injuries to cornerback Lattimore (ACL tear) and pass-catcher McCaffrey (broken collarbone) on game day, and have a number of other key players on injured reserve. The Commanders are three wins and six losses on the season, and it would require a huge turnaround for the club to reach the playoffs.
