Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels hit the practice field as a limited participant for the second straight time, starting his journey back after dislocating his left elbow in Week 2. He’s strapping on a brace for the rest of the season that will keep that elbow bent slightly, all to dodge another dislocation.
Elbow Drama and Daniels’ Mindset
This ain’t just some new ding; we’re talking about the same non-throwing elbow Daniels dislocated and then re-injured last season. Talk about a brutal repeat. But here’s the wild part: the third-year signal caller says he’s got zero concern about re-injuring it once he’s back in the thick of it. “That’s what the brace is for,” Daniels stated Thursday, just three days before the Commanders clash with the Indianapolis Colts in London. He even dropped a bomb, adding, “If I had that concern, I would have gotten surgery.” After huddling with a bunch of specialists, Daniels apparently wasn’t told he needed surgery right away. But, get this, a procedure could totally be on the table once the offseason hits. “Obviously you have those conversations with people I need to have those conversations with,” Daniels told ESPN. “If the surgery was needed to be ASAP, then I’ve got to do what’s best for me. We had those conversations. I was blessed enough to go back out there on the practice field … I’m not really concerned at this moment.”
The Coach’s Caution and Week 4 Question Marks
Daniels suffered this whole mess during the team’s loss to the Dallas Cowboys. He sat out last week’s game, but made the trip across the pond to England with the team this week. Head coach Dan Quinn kept it real on Wednesday, admitting there’s “still a chance” Daniels could play. But don’t get it twisted, Quinn also made it clear, “We’re not going to put him out there before he’s ready.” Sounds like they’re playing it smart, which you gotta respect. For now, Daniels is just “taking it day by day,” and whether he’ll actually suit up for Week 4 is still a giant question mark.
The Mariota Factor and Daniels’ Drive
If Daniels ends up being a no-go, Marcus Mariota is set to get his second straight start. But Daniels’ drive is undeniable. “I love playing football, I get paid to play football,” he declared. “Everybody is hurting. I just feel for me being a leader, go out there and give it my shot to go out and play and obviously protect myself. I just love football and have a passion for it.” This London game against the Colts is a big moment for the Commanders, and whether their QB1 is calling the shots or cheering from the sidelines, you know his heart is on that field.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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