The Washington Commanders suffered a devastating setback to their season during the fourth quarter of Sunday Night Football against the Seattle Seahawks when star quarterback Jayden Daniels sustained a severe elbow injury. This unfortunate event occurred while the game’s outcome was already well out of reach.
On Monday, Commanders head coach Dan Quinn took full responsibility for the decision to keep Daniels in the game. Speaking candidly during his press conference, Quinn said, “I know many of you have been asking about the thought process of Jayden being in the game in that situation. I get that. I’ve been thinking about it, honestly, nonstop too. And for me, I think the answer man, I missed it.”
He went on to explain his mindset: “I’ll fill you in on my thought process. At the start of the fourth quarter, that was going to be the last drive for a couple of guys. We weren’t going to have any read-run plays, meaning no carries for the quarterback on a run. And honestly man, that’s where I missed it. Of course he can scramble, it’s Jayden, that’s what he’s special at. And that is 100%, that’s on me.”
It’s uncommon for an NFL coach to be so open with reporters—especially without prompting. However, given the widespread criticism surrounding the decision to keep Daniels on the field during a blowout game, Quinn clearly wanted to own up to his choice.
While managing a press conference after such a controversial decision is never easy, Quinn was able to retain some respect by thoroughly explaining his rationale. This incident serves as a reminder that when coaches and athletes communicate honestly with the media, they are more likely to earn the benefit of the doubt.
https://awfulannouncing.com/nfl/dan-quinn-owns-jayden-daniels-mistake-in-monday-press-conference-i-missed-it.html
