Jayden Daniels designated as the starting quarterback for the Washington Commanders
The 2023 Heisman Trophy winner, who honed his skills in college football at Arizona State and Louisiana State University (LSU), was chosen second overall in the 2024 Draft as the team looks to embark on a new era of quarterback dominance and constancy. Daniels is poised to serve as the team's 8th Week 1 starting QB in as many seasons.
According to Washington head coach Dan Quinn, "He's earned his stripes and is more than ready." Daniels has worked diligently and benefited from fantastic teammates during his time here.
Nine-year veteran Marcus Mariota is also part of the Washington roster, but as the offseason progressed, it became increasingly evident that Daniels would take the spotlight as QB1.
Daniels becomes the second rookie QB to secure the starting position, with Caleb Williams, the Chicago Bears' No. 1 overall pick, being declared as their starter less than a month after the draft. Daniels will make his regular-season debut on September 8 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, when the Commanders travel to Florida for their 2024 opener.
"I'm just grateful that they trust me to lead the team, guide us to potential victories," said the 23-year-old. "So much gratitude to them. It's a blessing, something I've always dreamt of as a kid, to be in this position, to experience this."
Daniels began his college career at Arizona State, later transferring to LSU. He recently finished an outstanding 2023 season, solidifying his place as one of the country's top quarterback prospects and winning the Heisman Trophy, annually given to the most exceptional college player.
As per the NFL, he is the third LSU player to claim the award, joining Cincinnati Bengals superstar Joe Burrow (2019) and Billy Cannon (1959). He holds the fourth-highest passing yardage record at the school.
Despite being a significant aerial threat, Daniels is also renowned for his running capacity and is the only player in NCAA D1 Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) history to pass for 12,000 yards and rush for 3,000 yards.
Some doubts have arisen about his longevity following a few brutal hits in college, including a collision against Alabama in November that landed him in concussion protocol.
In limited preseason action, Daniels has impressed, completing 12-of-15 passes for 123 yards against the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins and adding an additional 13 yards through his running ability.
Daniels expressed his gratitude for being given the opportunity to lead the team and guide them towards potential victories, stating that it was a dream he had as a kid. His impressive performance in the preseason, completing 12 out of 15 passes against the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins, has further solidified his position as the starting quarterback, showcasing his skills both in passing and running. Despite some concerns about his longevity due to a few injuries in college, his love for the sport and his exceptional talent suggest a promising future in the NFL.
