The Washington Commanders have been decimated by injuries this season. It's no excuse for their inconsistent form, but it hasn't helped whatsoever. And there was more cause for alarm with the team's franchise player in Week 7 against the Dallas Cowboys.
Jayden Daniels has already missed time this season. The signal-caller was absent for two games with a knee injury, which was far from ideal. With the Commanders missing so many of his pass-catchers, the No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft was being relied upon more than ever.
Just when it looked like the Commanders might be gaining some momentum to begin the second half, disaster struck. Daniels fumbled the football, and the Cowboys gratefully jumped on it. But the lingering effects of the play were much worse.
Commanders' concerns grow as Jayden Daniels suffers hamstring injury
Daniels was immediately clutching his leg, and there was immediate concern among players and fans. He hobbled off the field and into the medical tent. After being checked by the staff, the former LSU standout went into the locker room. However, the fact that he was jogging back was a slight positive for the team's passionate support to cling to.
Daniels was officially listed as questionable to return with a hamstring injury. At least it wasn't the knee, but for a player who relies so much on mobility to get everything going, it wasn't exactly a positive development.
Soon after, Daniels was downgraded to out. Whether this was down to the game being out of sight remains to be seen, but it's something every fan will be monitoring closely in the coming days.
The Commanders will only go as far as Daniels takes them, although that won't be very far if the defense cannot get its act together. Losing him for any more time would be a body blow, no matter how much the dynamic weapon under center wants to be on the field.
It's the latest in a series of unfortunate incidents that have blighted the Commanders this season. And if Daniels is missing for any longer than this, Quinn can kiss his hopes of another playoff run goodbye.