Commanders saving Jayden Daniels from himself is the move fans hate but can’t deny

Jayden Daniels was far more agitated than usual during his appearance in front of the media this week. And the Washington Commanders quarterback has a pretty good reason why.

He wants to play. He wants to be on the field, helping his teammates cope with some increasing injury issues. Unfortunately, that decision is beyond his control.

Daniels is currently navigating a knee sprain that kept him out last weekend against the Las Vegas Raiders. He returned to practice on a limited basis on Wednesday and Thursday, but when he wasn't seen on Friday, that spread concern among the fan base.

Commanders were right not to risk Jayden Daniels in Week 4, even if the QB wanted to play

They were right to be worried. Daniels was ruled out for Washington's clash with the Atlanta Falcons in Week 4. That would have been an interesting conversation with the signal-caller, who felt he was moving well enough to feature and would have been deeply disappointed about not being cleared.

But make no mistake, the Commanders are right to save Daniels from himself.

Head coach Dan Quinn revealed that Daniels is working exceptionally hard to get back into the mix. He's relentlessly trying to prove his fitness, but the No. 2 pick in 2024 hasn't satisfied Washington's medical team enough to be featured right now.

He's working incredibly hard round the clock to get back. Ultimately doctors haven't cleared him just yet. He's absolutely doing everything he possibly can.Dan Quinn via ESPN

This is frustrating for everyone. Daniels, most of all.

He's a competitive guy. The last thing Daniels wants is to be on the sidelines. The former LSU sensation knows how integral he is to the team's chances of going deep into the postseason once again. Still, if there isn't complete conviction in his mobility or the risk of additional damage, the Commanders must protect their franchise player at all costs.

Daniels probably doesn't like it, but it's the correct call.

Washington could have risked him, especially given other health issues. However, if he got hurt and were out for an extended period, that would be much more detrimental to the Commanders' chances of toppling the division rival Philadelphia Eagles down the road.

It's the move fans didn't like, but nobody can deny that the Commanders are justified in erring on the side of caution. And once the immense disappointment wears off, Daniels will acknowledge that Washington has his best interests at heart.

Daniels' presser next week will be interesting, that's for sure.