Washington Commanders rookie quarterback, and the No. 2 overall pick in this spring’s NFL Draft, Jayden Daniels, has been one of the most pleasant surprises of the 2024 season’s first month.
Daniels has burst onto the scene, showcasing veteran poise, presence, and patience in the pocket with plus-accuracy while leading the Commanders to a 3-1 start to the 2024 campaign and a perch atop the NFC East standings.
Through the first four games of his career, Daniels is completing a ludicrous 82.1 percent of his passes for 897 yards with three touchdowns to just one interception, and an absolutely gangbusters 107.4 passer rating.
I asked an NFL scout his thoughts on what is powering Daniels’ rapid development and ascension among the top quarterbacks, who suggests the pieces around the reigning Heisman Trophy winner are just as valuable as what he’s putting on film.
“Jayden seems to ‘get it,’” the veteran AFC Scout tells me. “The moment isn’t too big for him, and his teammates believe in him. That’s absolutely huge for a young quarterback.”
Is Jayden Daniels Already One of The NFL’s Top Quarterbacks?
It’s early, only nearly a quarter of the way into his rookie season, but Daniels’ rookie season seems to be following in the footsteps of C.J. Stroud’s, who led the Texans to the playoffs after being chosen No. 2 overall.
CBS Sports already lists Daniels as the No. 9 quarterback in the league, in the outlet’s quarterback power rankings after four games.
“The rookie avoided major missteps to open the year by shepherding a very conservative attack,” CBS Sports NFL analyst Cody Benjamin writes. “He’s since opened up through the air, showcasing zippy accuracy to go with effortless juice on the move. Washington’s “D” isn’t great, but his comfort as a dual threat is a big reason they’re 3-1.”
Whether Daniels can maintain this torrid pace remains to be seen, but isn’t exactly the point. the former LSU standout is showing each week that he has the traits to be a quality NFL quarterback. If that trajectory continues, the Commanders are going to be in good shape in 2024, and beyond.
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