Commanders Lose QB Daniels During Blowout Loss

Jayden Daniels and the Commanders crafted one of last season’s most remarkable rookie success stories, with the former second overall pick leading a struggling franchise all the way to the NFC Championship Game. After such a breakthrough achievement, expectations were high that the Commanders would build on that momentum and make a genuine push for Super Bowl contention this year. Unfortunately, Washington has been hit hard by injuries, and now the team faces a potentially devastating setback as Jayden Daniels himself may be sidelined for the remainder of the season. Daniels suffered a dislocated left elbow during the fourth quarter of Sunday night’s 38–14 loss to the Seattle Seahawks — a blow that could significantly impact the team’s fortunes. While he is expected to be out indefinitely, it remains unclear whether his campaign is completely over, according to team sources.

The injury occurred with seven minutes and 39 seconds left in the game, at which point the Commanders trailed 38–7. Daniels had scrambled to his right but was brought down near the Seattle 4-yard line by Seahawks linebacker Drake Thomas. Throughout the game, Daniels endured relentless pressure, taking 14 hits, according to TruMedia — the second-highest total he has absorbed this season. Notably, in Week 2 against Green Bay, Daniels was hit 17 times, one of which caused a knee sprain that sidelined him for two weeks.

Despite the mounting pressure and lopsided deficit, head coach Dan Quinn stated he never seriously considered pulling Daniels from the field — a decision that has drawn deserved criticism given the importance of Daniels and the game situation. Truthfully, it made little sense to risk a player like Daniels, who has already proven to be a franchise cornerstone, especially after taking such a physical beating in an unwinnable contest.

With Daniels’ health now in question, the Commanders face a critical juncture as they attempt to navigate the challenges ahead without their most vital playmaker.