The Washington Commanders are facing uncertainty due to Jayden Daniels’ dislocated left elbow. Specialists will study MRI results to decide the best course of action for the team’s starting quarterback. Daniels will not play in Sunday’s game against the Seattle Seahawks, with Marcus Mariota stepping in as his replacement.
The Seahawks are hopeful to have Sam Darnold returning as their starting quarterback, although his participation depends on his practice performance.
Daniels is seeking multiple medical opinions to determine the next steps. “He had imaging done today,” said Commanders head coach Dan Quinn. “He’ll see specialists early this week, Tuesday and Wednesday, and then we’ll go through the process from there.” Quinn wisely refrained from speculating on a timeline until specialists provide more information.
“I’d be guessing to give you any timeline,” Quinn noted.
Possible recommendations from the specialists may include surgery, which would end Daniels’ season, or a rehab program like last year’s, avoiding surgery for now. Daniels, who played seven of 17 games last year, dislocated the same elbow last season and initially avoided surgery in favor of a quicker return to action.
However, he aggravated the injury last season in Week 14, resulting in the team shutting him down for the final four games. Now, the Commanders face a similar situation and must decide whether to take the same approach again.
Surgery is uncommon after an elbow dislocation unless the joint is unstable or ligaments and tendons are severely damaged. It remains unknown what Daniels specifically needs, adding complexity to the decision-making process.
Meanwhile, the Commanders must face upcoming games without Daniels, relying on Mariota and possibly other quarterbacks. Daniels’ absence places further strain on an already struggling 0-2 team as they try to regain stability in a challenging season.
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