Overview
- Daniels exited in the third quarter after an interception return block by Isaiah Rodgers sent him to the turf on his previously dislocated left elbow, and he was listed as questionable to return.
- Marcus Mariota replaced Daniels and finished the game following the injury, which occurred in Daniels’ first start back after being cleared for contact late in the week.
- Head coach Dan Quinn had emphasized the developmental value of playing Daniels despite the season’s trajectory, a choice some analysts questioned given Minnesota’s recent pressure-heavy defense.
- Washington’s 31-0 loss dropped the Commanders to 3-10 and officially eliminated them from postseason contention on a season already hit hard by injuries.
- Tight end Zach Ertz left in the third quarter with a knee injury and was later ruled out, with postgame reporting indicating concern about a serious setback pending further tests.