Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels had a surprising reaction to Stefon Diggs’ costly celebration penalty in Week 1.
Daniels did firmly point out that Diggs had to be smarter to avoid the unsportsmanlike conduct penalty he received after his fourth quarter touchdown, which deprived the Commanders of a chance to go for two and the tie. However, Daniels ultimately blamed himself for not reminding his teammates of the circumstances.
“We just got to be smarter. We’ve got to know situational football,” Daniels told reporters after the game. “That’s on me for not reiterating that in the huddle. There’s a time and place for everything. I’m pretty sure at that point we’d have went for two. As the leader and the captain, I put that onus on myself for not reiterating that in the huddle.”
Jayden Daniels on Stefon Diggs goalpost celebration:
— brandon (@JayDanielsMVP) September 14, 2026
“We just have to be smart…there’s a time and place for everything and celebrations. I’m pretty sure at that point we would’ve gone for two, had to settle for the extra point…” pic.twitter.com/RL18L44Axo
Credit to Daniels for taking responsibility, though few would agree that this falls on his shoulders. The quarterback should not have to remind Diggs, a 12-year veteran, not to cost the team potential points by picking up a celebration penalties. Then again, given Diggs’ lame excuse for the situation, perhaps that is giving the wide receiver too much credit.
Ultimately, the Commanders lost 24-22 after failing to convert a two-point conversion following a later touchdown. Though his day was marred by the penalty, Diggs did contribute four catches for 55 yards in his team debut.
