ASHBURN, Va. — Jayden Daniels has not focused much on his performance during his half-season journey as an NFL quarterback.
“I still have some ways to go,” he mentioned, adding that he would reflect on his season once it concludes.
Despite his modesty, the football community is abuzz about Daniels, who has propelled the Washington Commanders to their first 7-2 start since 1996.
Not only is he a leading candidate for the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year award, but he is also being discussed as a potential MVP contender.
Veteran tight end Zach Ertz remarked, “You guys got to stop calling him a rookie quarterback. His maturity and poise are that of a 10-year veteran, despite his rookie status.”
Daniels’ impressive performance has not surprised those familiar with him from his time at Arizona State and LSU, where he enjoyed a standout career that culminated in winning the 2023 Heisman Trophy and being selected second overall in the draft.
Friends and coaches recognize his determination to excel and his humility, indicating that his start may be just a precursor to a long and successful career filled with numerous accomplishments.
Inheriting the weight of being the face of an organization with a rich history, Daniels has displayed resilience and a consistent demeanor from the onset of offseason training.
This culminated in a memorable highlight where he threw a Hail Mary touchdown to Noah Brown in Week 8, leading to a victory over Chicago.
Out of his 163 completions on 228 attempts, he has achieved a success rate of 71.5%, placing him among the NFL’s elite quarterbacks.
With nine touchdown passes, four rushing scores, and only two interceptions, his play has garnered admiration from many, including former coach Herm Edwards.
“He doesn’t turn the ball over a lot,” Edwards noted, emphasizing that protecting the ball is second nature to him and reflecting on how Daniels has evolved into a smarter runner—essential in today’s league.
Daniels faced a setback due to rib injuries sustained during a tackle but made a swift recovery.
Despite the discomfort, he continued to perform, accumulating 535 passing yards, three touchdown passes, and 87 rushing yards over the next game.
“It’s not a surprise to me,” said San Francisco receiver Brandon Aiyuk, a former Arizona State teammate, highlighting Daniels’ consistent prowess.
During his transition to LSU in 2022, receiver Malik Nabers noticed a change in Daniels’ approach.
His inaugural season with the Tigers was impressive, featuring 17 touchdown passes and only three interceptions, culminating in a strong record.
However, after training with C.J. Stroud and others, Nabers observed an enhanced focus and energy from Daniels.
“He was picking defenses apart,” Nabers remarked. “He truly became the ultimate leader, showing commitment by staying late to refine his skills and ensure the team understood the playbook.”
Daniels achieved remarkable statistics during his final college year, leading the nation with 40 touchdown passes while running for 10 more, which led to earning the Heisman Trophy.
His work ethic extended beyond practice hours, known for diligent preparation and film study, as noticed by his coach, Dan Quinn.
“It’s not magic at play here. He puts in the effort, and that hard work is directly tied to his confidence on the field,” Quinn said.
At LSU, Daniels also engaged in cognitive training exercises and utilized virtual reality technology to enhance his anticipation skills.
Jack Marucci, the director of performance innovation, noted significant improvements in Daniels’ efficiency during practice, likening the results to receiving extra game reps.
“His ability to gauge the game and anticipate plays is significantly heightened,” Marucci explained.
With Daniels being coached by Kliff Kingsbury, who has a history of working with elite quarterbacks, it seems a natural fit.
Kingsbury saw potential in Daniels that has quickly translated into effective offensive strategy.
In a high-stakes matchup against Cincinnati, Daniels showcased his abilities, completing 21 of 23 passes for 254 yards, demonstrating his incredible skill set.
His defining moment thus far came when he executed an impressive scramble against the Bears and launched a Hail Mary that found its target in the end zone.
Edwards praised Daniels’ ability to maintain composure during crucial moments, suggesting that he thrives under pressure.
Receiver Terry McLaurin echoed these sentiments, asserting that Daniels is more prepared than most rookies stepping into such a demanding role.
Even opponents have taken notice of Daniels’ talent; Baltimore’s quarterback Lamar Jackson acknowledged his remarkable performance, while Ravens linebacker Roquan Smith expressed confidence in Daniels.
With MVP odds being closely monitored, Daniels ranks alongside prominent players in the league, reflecting his rapid rise.
His friend Nabers, who initially bet against Daniels for the Offensive Rookie of the Year title, recognized that his friend’s approach among competition reflects an unyielding desire to succeed.
“He thrives in high-pressure moments,” Nabers commented. “Whenever the stakes are high, he embraces the challenge.”
