A JuJu Watkins reference on Jayden Daniels’ gear became a surprising talking point among NFL fans this week as the sophomore quarterback for the Washington Commanders suffered a gruesome elbow injury against the Seattle Seahawks. The Commanders would go on to lose the game by a score of 38-14, putting their season record to 3-6.
The reference on Daniels’ wrist tape circulated across social media, where already tense fans reacted with sly comments. Daniels wore the number ’12’ on his wrist tape, which could have been a reference to Watkins’ jersey number. Fans have been speculating about the relationship between Watkins and Daniels in the past, and unfortunately, these reactions coincided with his injury.
How Did Fans React to the JuJu Watkins Reference on Jayden Daniels’ Gear?
The timing of the reference on the gear added a layer to the reaction online. Watkins is currently out for the season with her own injury, so many fans couldn’t help but point out the irony of the situation. What could have been a fun or personal nod for Daniels became fuel for conversation, humor, and concern all at once.
One fan pointed out the unfortunate coincidence, noting that both Daniels and Watkins are now sidelined at the same time. The moment was originally meant to be a supportive nod to Watkins, but now it has a much heavier feel, as both athletes face long recovery periods ahead.
And now they’re both out for the year 😢
— Jay (@Mashlyfe_Jay) November 3, 2025
This next fan took a more sarcastic angle on the situation, using the moment to point out the symbolism of Daniels possibly suffering a season-ending injury like Watkins did. “The same one he broke to match her knee” the fan said.
The same one he broke to match her knee
— AB (@Million_made_) November 3, 2025
Another fan poked fun at the conversation around the Daniels’ family dynamics, specifically around his mother, Regina Daniels. His mother has made waves on social media before for being highly involved in his personal life and relationships, almost on the level of a helicopter parent. “And now his arms broken. Maybe his momma was right” they said.
And now his arms broken. Maybe his momma was right
— Fry 🥸 (@Frycism) November 3, 2025
The injury to Daniels is unfortunate, but it should be noted that it is to no fault of his own or Watkins. Whether they’re in a relationship or not, the reference was simply a personal gesture. The timing of both athletes’ injuries is nothing more than a coincidence, an unfortunate one at that. Injuries are an unavoidable part of sports, and now both athletes face the problematic reality of recovery. The focus for both athletes and fan bases now should be that each player returns healthy and ready to contribute again.