In a bold move that sent shockwaves throughout the football world, Dan Quinn, the head coach of the Washington Commanders, announced on Tuesday morning that Jayden Daniels, the highly touted No. 2 overall pick and Heisman Trophy winner, has claimed the starting quarterback position on the team’s first unofficial depth chart. The Commanders are set to kick off their preseason campaign against the New York Jets this Saturday, with Daniels leading the charge.
“I had high expectations for him coming in, but I’d say he’s definitely surpassed even my expectations of readiness, command,” Quinn expressed. “I knew he was gonna be cool knowing the system. He’s just got that way about him. You do see the other players gravitate towards him; they recognize how hard he’s worked at it.”
While the decision may have been anticipated by many, the competition between Daniels and Marcus Mariota for the starting spot kept fans and analysts on edge. Both quarterbacks had been splitting first-team reps during the initial week of training camp, with Mariota often getting the nod to run with the starters. However, as the calendar flipped from July to August, Daniels began to assert himself and took control of the first-team offense.
Daniels, no stranger to competition, embraced the challenge, drawing on his experience from when he transferred from Arizona State to LSU just two years ago. His meteoric rise in Baton Rouge was a testament to his work ethic and determination, qualities that have continued to shine through in Washington.
“No, I like competing,” Daniels asserted in late July. “I’m a competitor, so regardless if I was announced the starter or not, you still got to compete. You still can’t be content of your job, comfortable. I think it is just your job to seal the deal. You got to go out there and compete. So for me it’s not a problem at all. I like competing.”
Teammates have lauded Daniels for his approach both on and off the field, noting his dedication to mastering his craft. From arriving early at the practice facility to utilizing cutting-edge virtual reality technology for extra mental reps, Daniels has left no stone unturned in his quest for excellence. He has also been proactive in seeking advice from veteran players, a move that has only endeared him further to his colleagues.
“With him, anything is possible, and he’s showing you that,” remarked wide receiver Jahan Dotson in late July. “He’s putting the ball in places where it makes our job so much easier, because he is putting it where only you can get it, and the defender has no play on it. He’s a special talent and he’s showing you guys, he is showing us each and every day, and we’re just excited that he’s on our side.”
Despite being one of five quarterbacks taken in the first round of this year’s draft, Daniels finds himself in rare company as one of only two rookies to secure a starting role thus far. The other signal caller holding that distinction is Caleb Williams, the top overall pick selected by the Chicago Bears.
As Daniels prepares to lead the Commanders into battle this weekend, all eyes will be on the young quarterback as he seeks to validate the confidence shown in him by the coaching staff and his teammates. The stage is set for Jayden Daniels to make a statement in his NFL debut, and the football world eagerly awaits the next chapter in his burgeoning career.