The internet was abuzz Wednesday morning over an old photo of LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels’ elbow.
Wednesday marked LSU’s pro day at the team’s practice facility in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where many NFL teams gathered to watch Daniels pitch as he prepares for April’s draft.
The current Heisman Trophy winner performed well, but online attention focused on the QB’s photo. Posted by NFL Insider Ian Rapoport as part of an update on teams planning to play against potential top-three picks.
This image (USA TODAY Sports photo from LSU vs. Alabama on Nov. 4, 2023) shows Daniels throwing the ball with what looks like a bulging sac on his elbow. X users wondered why his arms looked so weird, or maybe it was a bad editing or AI job.
“He needs a new elbow.” Written by user X.
“Why is this photo so scary?” another person joked.
“This photo looks like it’s been photoshopped…his hands are amazing…” Someone else called out.
Others questioned why Lapopte chose that particular photo to accompany the news.
“Is that a photo you had to use?” someone asked a question.
“You’re using AI photography now, Ian?” another user asked.
If anyone is concerned that this change may be a symptom of a larger problem with Mr. Daniels, please contact your sports medicine doctor. Dr. Jesse Morse of the Osteopathic Center spoke out on social media. Add context about the image.
“Jaden Daniels appears to be dealing with olecranon bursitis in his right-handed pitching elbow,” he wrote. “This is an inflammation of the bursae. Bursae are sacs that are normally empty and are there to protect the bones beneath them. Several joints have them, including the elbows and knees.”
Additionally, “These are very common things and are more of a nuisance than a worry. Unless they are infected.”
Daniels’ elbow was not visible at Wednesday’s pro day, and to honor Daniels, who missed most of his senior season, the NFL prospect wore a purple jersey with LSU teammate Greg Brook Jr.’s name and number on it. He was wearing a long-sleeved shirt. Since being diagnosed with a brain tumor in September, ESPN reported.
Daniels then makes a pass with representatives from all 32 NFL teams in attendance.
