In a move that signals a new chapter for the Washington Commanders, head coach Dan Quinn officially named Jayden Daniels as the team's Week 1 starting quarterback. The announcement made on Monday puts an end to weeks of speculation and training camp competition.
The decision follows an impressive preseason performance by Daniels, who completed 10 of 12 passes for 78 yards and added 13 yards on the ground in a game against the Miami Dolphins. Beyond his statistical contributions, Daniels demonstrated a command of the offense, leading Washington into scoring position on both of his drives. The efforts resulted in field goal attempts, supplementing his dynamic touchdown on a 3-yard keeper in the opening week of the preseason against the New York Jets.
Coach Dan Quinn praised Daniels, saying, "I'd say he's definitely surpassed even my expectations of readiness, command." Such high praise is not easily earned, especially considering the rigorous training camp during which Daniels initially shared first-team reps with veteran quarterback Marcus Mariota. By the second week of camp, Daniels had asserted himself as the frontrunner, receiving the majority of first-team reps. According to sources, he has taken almost every first-team rep since then.
Daniels' rapid rise within the Commanders' depth chart underscores his significant potential and remarkable collegiate career. At LSU last season, Daniels threw for 3,812 yards and ran for an additional 1,134 yards, amassing 50 total touchdowns with an impressive completion rate of over 72%. His ball security also stood out, evidenced by just four interceptions over the season. These accomplishments culminated in him being the No. 2 overall pick and the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner, accolades that have understandably raised the stakes and expectations for his transition to the NFL.
Reflecting on his ascent, Daniels shared his mindset with reporters: "No, I like competing. 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."
In selecting Daniels, the Commanders are not only hoping to leverage his individual talents but also hoping for stability at a position that has seen frequent changes. Remarkably, the team has had a different Week 1 starting quarterback every year for the past seven seasons. Last year, it was Sam Howell, and in 2017, it was Kirk Cousins.
Wide receiver Jahan Dotson has already noticed the positive impact of Daniels' addition. "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. You truly got to cherish stuff like that and be thankful for it because not everyone can do that." Dotson's comments underscore the confidence and optimism brewing within the Commanders' locker room.
The first test for Daniels and the Commanders will come on September 8, when they face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. All eyes will be on the rookie quarterback as he looks to secure a long-term foothold as Washington's leader on offense. The game not only marks the beginning of a new NFL season but also the potential beginning of a new era for the Commanders under Jayden Daniels' leadership.