The Washington Commanders officially named Jayden Daniels their starting quarterback, solidifying the expectations set since the NFL Draft. Head coach Dan Quinn announced the decision after observing Daniels’ consistent performance with the first team during training camp. While Daniels had been taking snaps with the starters for weeks, Quinn emphasized the importance of letting Daniels earn his role, allowing him to prove his worth.
Daniels, the second overall pick in April and the 2023 Heisman Trophy winner demonstrated exceptional skill and composure throughout the preseason. In two preseason games, he completed 12 of 15 passes for 123 yards, showcasing his quick decision-making and accuracy. His 66-yard pass to receiver Dyami Brown and a 42-yard completion after a smart check-out of a screen pass were highlights that impressed the coaching staff. Even more noteworthy was his ability to avoid pressure, maintaining an average release time of 2.02 seconds against the Dolphins, according to Next Gen Stats.
Coach Quinn praised Daniels for his command of the offense, ball placement, and his ability to self-correct, often recognizing mistakes before the coaches could point them out. This self-awareness and ability to learn quickly were significant factors in Quinn’s decision to name Daniels the starter. The rookie has also garnered respect from his teammates, who admire his humility, swagger, and relentless work ethic.
Quinn pointed out a practice session before the team’s trip to Miami as the moment everything clicked for Daniels. His accuracy, communication, and overall control of the game stood out, cementing his position as the team’s leader. This performance, combined with his impressive preseason outings, made it clear that Daniels was ready for the responsibility.
For the Commanders, this decision marks the seventh consecutive year they’ve entered the season with a new starting quarterback. Despite the pressure, Daniels has remained focused on earning his spot, understanding that his college success doesn’t guarantee NFL readiness. His mindset reflects a commitment to proving himself to his coaches, teammates, and himself.
Daniels’ journey to becoming the Commanders’ starting quarterback was not without its challenges. Early in training camp, Marcus Mariota often took the first snaps, but Daniels consistently proved his worth in full-team and 7-on-7 drills. His performances, particularly in the preseason, where he showed his ability to make quick reads and avoid pressure, have given the Commanders confidence in his ability to lead the team.
Daniels has been praised for his ball placement, accuracy, and personality, all of which have shown up in both practice and games. His work ethic and poise in the pocket have drawn the admiration of both his teammates and coaching staff. Quinn has remarked on Daniels’ unique combination of humility and swagger, traits that have endeared him to the team.
The Commanders were initially drawn to Daniels during the draft process but kept their intentions under wraps. His ability to correct mistakes quickly and improve daily stood out to Quinn and the coaching staff. This self-awareness and quick learning curve have been crucial to Daniels’ development, allowing him to earn the starting role.
General manager Adam Peters, who made the decision to draft Daniels, also sees the rookie as a natural leader. Daniels himself expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him by Quinn and Peters, acknowledging the importance of proving himself worthy of leading the team.
As the Commanders prepare for the upcoming season, Daniels’ journey to the starting quarterback position is a testament to his talent, determination, and ability to rise to the challenge. His selection as the starter not only reflects his on-field performance but also his ability to lead and inspire confidence in those around him. With the season ahead, the Commanders are hopeful that Daniels can help lead the franchise to success, fulfilling the potential they saw in him from the start.
