Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels is set to start Sunday against the New York Giants wearing a protective brace on his left elbow, despite lingering medical concerns from opposing doctors around the NFL regarding his recurring injury history.
Medical experts recommend wearing protective brace for quarterback
Daniels missed the last two games after suffering his second left elbow dislocation in a span of 11 months during Week 2. Following the latest setback, the third-year star visited medical specialists in New York and Los Angeles. According to sources cited by ESPN, the overwhelming medical consensus from those visits was that playing with a protective brace represents a viable option for the quarterback.
However, opinions vary across the league. Other doctors around the NFL who have not personally examined Daniels maintain that any player sustaining two elbow dislocations within 11 months faces an elevated risk of subsequent dislocations, sources told ESPN.
Quarterback participates fully in practice without offensive limitations
Despite the outside medical scrutiny, Daniels was a full participant in practice throughout the week leading up to the matchup. Commanders offensive coordinator David Blough told reporters Thursday that the quarterback would be a full go Sunday against the Giants, stressing that the coaching staff plans to implement zero limitations in the team’s offensive game plan.
Daniels stated that the brace allows him to execute every necessary mechanical requirement on the field, including taking direct snaps from the center and handling routine handoffs. With backup Marcus Mariota ruled out due to a sprained MCL, rookie Athan Kaliakmanis will serve as Daniels’ primary backup on Sunday.
Frequently Asked Questions About Jayden Daniels’ Return
Why did Jayden Daniels miss time before this game?
Daniels missed the previous two contests after suffering his second left elbow dislocation of the past 11 months during the team’s Week 2 matchup.
Who will back up Daniels against the New York Giants?
Rookie Athan Kaliakmanis will serve as the backup quarterback for Washington on Sunday because Marcus Mariota is sidelined with a sprained MCL.
What did medical specialists recommend for the elbow injury?
After visits to specialists in New York and Los Angeles, the overwhelming medical opinion was that playing with a protective brace is a viable option for the rest of the season.
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