Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels suffered a dislocated left elbow during the team’s 38-14 loss to the Seattle Seahawks in Week 9 on Sunday. The injury occurred late in the fourth quarter with the Commanders already trailing by 31 points, sparking widespread criticism of head coach Dan Quinn’s decision to keep Daniels in the game. Quinn later accepted full responsibility, calling the choice a “miss” and “100 percent on me.” The jayden daniels arm injury is expected to sideline the rookie for several games, dealing another blow to Washington’s struggling 3-6 season.
Main Details: How the Injury Happened
Daniels, 24, was injured with 7:29 remaining in the fourth quarter on what appeared to be a run-pass option (RPO) play. After faking a handoff to running back Chris Rodriguez, Daniels faced immediate pressure from Seahawks linebacker Boye Mafe. Forced to scramble, he was tackled by Drake Thomas near the goal line and landed awkwardly on his left arm while bracing his fall.
The result was a dislocated elbow, confirmed by postgame reports. Initial medical evaluations revealed no fractures, but Daniels is scheduled for an MRI to determine the full extent of ligament damage. The Commanders have announced Marcus Mariota will take over as starting quarterback while Daniels recovers.
Coach Reaction: Dan Quinn Accepts Responsibility
Following the game, head coach Dan Quinn faced criticism for keeping his starting quarterback on the field despite the lopsided score. On Monday, Quinn addressed the issue directly, admitting fault.
“I’ve been thinking about it nonstop too, and, man, I missed it. That is 100 percent on me,” Quinn said. “We were more conservative with play-calling, trying to protect him. Just the end result — I’m bummed.”
Quinn clarified that the play leading to the injury was not designed as a read or scramble:
“If we run that play 50 times, it’s a handoff or a short throw 50 times. It’s not meant for him to take off. It’s just bad luck, and I’m gutted.”
Impact Analysis: Commanders Face Major Setback
The jayden daniels arm injury marks his third physical setback this season following previous knee and hamstring issues. Combined with injuries to key players such as Terry McLaurin (quad), Washington’s offense continues to struggle.
At 3-6, the Commanders’ playoff hopes are dwindling. Daniels had shown flashes of dual-threat potential before the injury, contributing both in passing and rushing yards. With Mariota stepping in, the team’s offensive dynamic will shift to a more conservative, pocket-based approach, potentially limiting big-play opportunities.
What’s Next for Washington
Daniels’ official MRI results and recovery timeline are expected later this week. The Commanders will prepare for Week 10 with Mariota under center and an adjusted offensive strategy. Quinn stated that further updates will be shared “once the medical team finalizes their assessment.”
Washington’s focus now turns to stabilizing its offense and avoiding further injuries as the team faces a tough schedule ahead.
