Stephen A. Smith fears history could repeat after Jayden Daniels’ injury
· Yahoo Sports
Stephen A. Smith fears Jayden Daniels’ latest injury could create an RG3-like pattern for the Washington Commanders.
Speaking on ESPN’s “First Take,” Smith reacted after Daniels dislocated his left elbow during Sunday’s 37-20 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. Daniels suffered the injury on the final play of the first half after stumbling and bracing himself with his non-throwing arm.
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“I feel bad for the Washington Commanders’ fan base,” Smith said. “This is RG3 written all over it again.”
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Daniels had already missed significant time during the 2025 season because of injuries. He missed 10 games that year, including time with a knee sprain, hamstring injury and a previous dislocated left elbow.
The latest injury affects the same elbow he dislocated last season. Coach Dan Quinn said initial X-rays showed no fracture, while Daniels will undergo additional testing.
Smith acknowledged Daniels’ ability while raising concerns about his availability.
“It’s not this brother’s talent because when he’s behind center, and he’s back there flinging that football, you have all the faith in the world,” Smith said. “But he’s one of those guys – it almost looks like what can go wrong will go wrong injury-wise.”
Daniels completed 11 of 17 passes for 96 yards and a touchdown before leaving Sunday’s game. He also rushed seven times for 69 yards, showing the dual-threat ability that remains central to Washington’s offense.
Commanders face another major quarterback setback
Arlington, Texas, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) lies on the field with an apparent injury to his left arm during the second half against the Dallas Cowboys at AT&T Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images Credit: IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect (Reuters)Washington now turns to veteran Marcus Mariota while Daniels recovers. The Commanders scored only 10 second-half points after Mariota entered against Dallas.
Daniels’ availability will now directly affect Washington’s offensive structure. His running ability used to create extra gaps and changed how defenses defended Washington’s passing concepts.
Smith compared the situation with Robert Griffin III, who won Offensive Rookie of the Year before suffering major injuries during his Washington tenure.
“Former number two overall pick, offensive rookie of the year, and I’m just letting you know, dual threat, slender build, and you’ve incurred these injuries,” Smith said.
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He also noted that Daniels and Caleb Williams entered the NFL together as highly regarded quarterbacks.
“I always thought that Jaden Daniels’ talent was comparable to Caleb Williams,” Smith said. “I expected Caleb Williams not to have the durability issues that Jaden Daniels has.”
Daniels’ current timeline remains unclear, making Monday’s additional testing important. Quinn said the team would “rally so hard around Marcus” while Daniels is unavailable.
Smith ended with a clear concern about Daniels’ future availability.
“I hope I’m wrong because I think he’s a terrific player,” Smith said. “You’re like, please, please survive. Please last the next play.”
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