In a significant move for the Washington Commanders, head coach Dan Quinn announced on Monday that Jayden Daniels will be the team's Week 1 starting quarterback. This decision comes after an impressive preseason performance from Daniels, who completed 10 of 12 passes for 78 yards against the Miami Dolphins. His dual-threat capability was also on display, as he added 13 yards on the ground. Daniels led the team into scoring positions on both of his drives in that game, resulting in field goal attempts.
Daniels, the No. 2 overall pick and the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner, clearly earned his starting position. "I'd say he's definitely surpassed even my expectations of readiness, command," Quinn remarked, reflecting the overall sentiment within the organization. Daniels showcased his ability to handle pressure early, scoring a touchdown on a 3-yard keeper in the opening week of the preseason against the New York Jets.
His stats from his final season at LSU speak volumes. Daniels threw for an impressive 3,812 yards and ran for an additional 1,134 yards, combining for 50 total touchdowns. His consistency and precision were evident with a completion rate of over 72%, coupled with just four interceptions. Such a performance undoubtedly laid the groundwork for his swift ascendance in Washington.
During training camp, Daniels initially split first-team reps with veteran Marcus Mariota. However, by the second week, he had secured the majority of the first-team reps and has since taken almost every first-team rep. This ascent within the team was a testament to his work ethic and skill. Daniels himself embraces the competitive spirit, stating, "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."
The Commanders have had a revolving door at the quarterback position, with a different Week 1 starter for the past seven seasons. Last year, Sam Howell held the position, following a lineage that includes Kirk Cousins, who started in 2017. This instability at the position has been a significant narrative around the team, making the emergence of Daniels all the more critical for their ambitions this season.
Jahan Dotson, Washington's wide receiver, has already expressed his admiration for Daniels' skills. "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 observed, highlighting the precision and confidence with which Daniels operates.
All eyes will be on the Commanders as they face Tampa Bay on September 8. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see if Daniels' college success and preseason performances will translate into regular-season victories. For a franchise that has struggled with consistency at the quarterback position, Daniels represents a beacon of hope and potential.
As Washington gears up for the season opener, the confidence within the camp is palpable. Coach Quinn and his staff have placed their trust in Daniels, hoping that his blend of athleticism and poise can guide the team to a successful campaign. With a fresh face like Daniels under center, the Commanders look to carve out a new chapter in their storied history, one that promises excitement and potential for the seasons to come.