The Washington Commanders are gearing up to unleash their No. 2 overall pick onto the gridiron for the first time in their preseason opener as quarterback Jayden Daniels is set to make his debut against the New York Jets on Saturday.
Head coach Dan Quinn confirmed the news to reporters, stating, “I think we’ve probably said it all along there’s been a whole process…It’s not been a secret at all, but a process of how we’re going to go get guys ready. So the games are important, to go and play and get ready — not just with Jayden, but with everybody.”
As training camp progresses, rookies like Daniels are acclimating to the demands of the NFL. However, true insights into their potential will come from facing off against real opponents in preseason games. While in-game experience is invaluable for rookies, there is always the looming threat of injury.
The duration of Daniels’ playing time remains uncertain. The Commanders’ quarterback room boasts other contenders like Marcus Mariota, Jeff Driskel, and undrafted rookie Sam Hartman who could also see action.
In his impressive collegiate campaign at LSU, Daniels tallied 3,812 passing yards, 40 touchdowns, and only four interceptions, along with 1,134 rushing yards and 10 scores in just 12 games. Despite his remarkable college stats, Daniels hasn’t been anointed as the team’s starter yet. Nevertheless, his progress has garnered commendations from his coaches and general manager Adam Peters.
Adam Peters emphasized the importance of allowing Daniels to develop naturally, stating, “When they’re ready, the team knows, the coaches know. So, you don’t want to fast track it. You don’t want to slow it down. You just want to let it happen naturally.”
On the flip side, the quarterback situation for the New York Jets in the preseason remains uncertain. Head coach Robert Saleh hinted that Aaron Rodgers, recovering from a season-ending Achilles injury, may not see any preseason action. Rodgers, on the other hand, expressed surprise at this statement.
The NFL Draft saw a flurry of quarterback selections early on, paving the way for numerous rookie debuts in the upcoming weeks. Alongside Daniels, other rookie quarterbacks vying for playing time include Drake Maye of the New England Patriots, Michael Penix Jr. of the Atlanta Falcons, J.J. McCarthy of the Minnesota Vikings, and Bo Nix of the Denver Broncos. The stage is set for a thrilling preseason full of exciting quarterback talent on display.
