Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels impressed with his decision-making, accuracy, and leadership in his first preseason game for the Washington Commanders, showcasing potential to end years of quarterback woes.
In the heart of MetLife Stadium, amidst the raucous preseason battle between the Washington Commanders and New York Jets, a glimmer of hope emerged for a franchise starved for a franchise quarterback. Jayden Daniels, the 23-year-old second overall pick in the NFL Draft, took the field for his first taste of real game action and ignited a spark within the Commanders' faithful.
His first pass, a screen that sailed over Austin Ekeler's head, was far from perfect. Yet, Daniels composed himself and on the very next play, unleashed a perfectly placed 42-yard bomb to receiver Dyami Brown. The effortless power and pinpoint accuracy of his throw was not just a highlight for a preseason game; it was a manifestation of Daniels' immense potential.
What made this play even more remarkable was the fact that it wasn't the designed call. Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury had signaled for a screen pass, but Daniels recognized that the Jets' defense was too close to the line of scrimmage, rendering it ineffective. With lightning-fast reflexes, he checked to a play he liked better, "giving my guy a chance to make a play," as he explained later.
Brown did just that, hauling in the pass over the outstretched arm of Jets cornerback Jarrick Bernard-Converse. It was a dazzling play that brought back memories of Washington's former quarterbacking greats. But perspective is crucial, especially during preseason, and Daniels is still a rookie facing a second-team defense.
However, the excitement surrounding Daniels extends beyond a single scintillating play. Throughout the offense's first drive, he exhibited a command of the huddle and a maturity beyond his years. He orchestrated an efficient 11-play, 70-yard touchdown drive that culminated in a three-yard run by Daniels himself.
While Daniels' arm strength and leadership are undeniable, he is still rounding out his game. There were no off-schedule throws during his short stint, as his offensive line held up admirably. Most run-pass option (RPO) plays resulted in handoffs, except for his touchdown run, which showcased his deception and ability to read defenses.
Despite playing just one series and going 2 for 3 for 45 yards, Daniels' performance left an undeniable imprint on the Commanders' organization. He has injected a sense of optimism into a franchise that has endured years of quarterback turmoil.
"I think everybody should be very excited just from that little sneak peek right there," declared Commanders guard Sam Cosmi. "I know I am. I know the guys are fired up. I think we've got a dude back there."
The optimism is understandable, considering the Commanders have undergone multiple name changes in recent years but haven't had a winning season since 2015. Their last playoff victory came in 2005, when Daniels was just a toddler.
However, the road ahead is not without its challenges. Daniels struggled in a joint practice against the Jets' first-team defense, completing only 7 of 15 passes in team drills. Even then, Sauce Gardner, one of the league's top corners, recognized Daniels' potential, telling him after practice, "You're going to be real good."
Commanders players and coaches share a belief in Daniels' rapid development. Head coach Dan Quinn couldn't help but smile when discussing Daniels' audible on his third NFL play. "It was a really cool play," Quinn admitted. "I think it probably illustrates for him the awareness and checks and things that go into it. Yeah, he did not ask for permission."
If Daniels continues to play with such poise and decision-making, Quinn may grant him permission to "buzz the tower" as often as he pleases. The Commanders' quarterback woes may finally be coming to an end, and Jayden Daniels is at the heart of the resurgence.
