The Washington Commanders have made their decision for the Week 1 starting quarterback, and it’s a name that's generating significant buzz around the NFL: Jayden Daniels. Head coach Dan Quinn announced on Monday that Daniels, the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner and the No. 2 overall draft pick, will lead the team into their season opener against Tampa Bay on September 8.
A Stellar Preseason
Daniels’ preseason performances cemented his role at the helm of the Commanders' offense. Against the Miami Dolphins, he completed 10 of 12 passes for 78 yards. Not only was he effective through the air, but Daniels also added 13 yards on the ground, showcasing his dual-threat capability. On both of his drives, he led the team into scoring positions, resulting in field goal attempts. His versatility was further on display in a preseason matchup against the New York Jets, where he scored a touchdown on a 3-yard keeper.
Commanders’ Coaching Vision
Dan Quinn didn’t hesitate to praise Daniels. "I'd say he's definitely surpassed even my expectations of readiness, command," Quinn remarked. The confidence that Quinn and his coaching staff have in Daniels is evident, given that he initially split first-team reps with veteran Marcus Mariota during training camp. By the second week, Daniels was receiving the majority of first-team reps and has taken almost every first-team snap since then.
A Record-Breaking College Career
Daniels' ascension to the starting role is hardly surprising considering his stellar college career at LSU. Last season, Daniels threw for an impressive 3,812 yards and ran for an additional 1,134 yards, accumulating 50 total touchdowns. His completion rate of over 72% and just four interceptions all season illustrate his precision and decision-making prowess.
Teammates' Trust and Support
Wide receiver Jahan Dotson is already impressed with his new quarterback's 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 said.
Competitive Fire
Daniels, for his part, remains focused and grounded. Despite the early accolades, he is not taking his starting position for granted. "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," Daniels commented.
A New Era for the Commanders
This decision marks another year of quarterback changes for the Commanders, who have had a different Week 1 starting quarterback for the past seven seasons. Last year's starter, Sam Howell, and 2017's Kirk Cousins are part of a long list of players who have taken the opening snaps for Washington in recent years. However, the arrival of Daniels signals a fresh start and perhaps some long-sought stability at the position.
As the Commanders prepare for their season opener, all eyes will be on Jayden Daniels. With his track record of success and the support of his team and coaches, he seems poised to lead Washington into a new and promising chapter. The matchup against Tampa Bay will undoubtedly be the first true test of his professional career, one that fans and analysts alike will be eagerly watching.