Dude, it was *brutal*. Everyone watching on TV saw it happen: Jayden Daniels’ left elbow dislocated during the second half of Week 2’s game against the Dallas Cowboys. Talk about a gut punch. What makes this even worse, and why everyone’s freaking out, is this is the *same exact elbow* Daniels injured last year. Forget how much time he might miss, there’s some serious, serious concern about his long-term health here.
Daniels’ Recurring Elbow Issues Demand a Real Plan B
Look, we all want Daniels to be the guy for the long haul. When he’s healthy, he’s proven he can be a good quarterback. But two seasons, two elbow injuries? That’s not just bad luck, that’s a pattern. ESPN’s Ben Solak isn’t sugarcoating it, and honestly, neither should any Commanders fan. Solak laid out his concern plain as day, saying, “If he misses 15 games this year, I don’t see how the Commanders don’t consider a young, developmental investment in QB2.” Right now, the backup option is Marcus Mariota, and let’s be real, his ceiling isn’t exactly sky-high. Solak’s point is sharp: the Commanders need a better long-term view at QB2 than Mariota. They need to explore outside options, someone with way more upside.
Anthony Richardson Sr. Could Be the High-Upside Gamble
So, who’s this “better option”? Solak floated an intriguing name: Anthony Richardson Sr. Yeah, the Colts first-rounder. Now, before you roll your eyes, hear me out. Richardson has been a “complete bust” for the Colts, and he’s had his own injury woes, for sure. His career completion percentage is a rough 50.6, with 11 touchdowns to 13 interceptions on 350 pass attempts for only 2,400 yards in 15 starts. Those numbers aren’t pretty, no doubt. But the guy is only 24 years old, a 2023 first-round pick, and he’s got that dual-threat ability with a rocket for an arm. His ceiling? Much higher than most backup QBs around the NFL. This dude could be a franchise quarterback if he ever figures things out.
The Commanders could grab Richardson this upcoming offseason, or even during the 2026 season if they want insurance sooner. He’s only under contract with the Colts on his rookie deal for the rest of the 2026 season. Think about it: it’s a low-risk, high-upside depth addition. If Daniels keeps getting hurt, a swing on Richardson makes total sense. It could give Commanders fans some real hope, a genuine developmental QB2 who could potentially turn into something special. It’s time for the Commanders to make a bold move for their future.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by The Sporting News.
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