Jayden Daniels Named Commanders’ Week 1 Starting Quarterback
In a decision that has set the stage for the Washington Commanders' upcoming season, head coach Dan Quinn has named Jayden Daniels the team’s Week 1 starting quarterback. The announcement came on Monday after an impressive preseason showing by Daniels, solidifying his spot in the starting lineup.
Daniels’ preseason performances have provided a glimpse into his potential. Completing 10 of his 12 passes for 78 yards and adding 13 yards on the ground against the Miami Dolphins, he led Washington into scoring position on two distinct drives, resulting in field goal attempts. This level of proficiency and composure has not gone unnoticed by the coaching staff.
“I’d say he’s definitely surpassed even my expectations of readiness, command,” said Quinn, a clear nod to Daniels' quick adaptation to the professional game. This remarkable progress has come after Daniels initially split first-team reps with veteran quarterback Marcus Mariota during training camp. By the second week, Daniels had emerged as the primary choice, taking almost every first-team rep since then.
Daniels' journey to becoming the Commanders' starter has been anything but conventional. As the No. 2 overall pick and the 2024 Heisman Trophy winner, Daniels brings a decorated college career to Washington. At LSU, he amassed 3,812 passing yards and an additional 1,134 yards on the ground last season, combining for an astonishing 50 total touchdowns. His completion rate was over 72%, and he threw only four interceptions, showcasing his ability to make smart decisions with the football.
His transition to the professional level has been marked by strong preseason performances, including a memorable touchdown on a 3-yard keeper in the opening week against the New York Jets. These moments have underscored his readiness to lead the Commanders as they prepare for their season opener against Tampa Bay on September 8.
Daniels' leadership and precision have not only caught the eye of his coach but also his teammates. "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," said wide receiver Jahan Dotson. "You truly got to cherish stuff like that and be thankful for it, because not everyone can do that." Dotson’s praise reflects the growing confidence and chemistry within the team’s offensive unit.
For Daniels, the announcement as the starter is just another step in his competitive journey. "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 with your job, comfortable,” Daniels shared. “I think it is just your job to seal the deal. You got to go out there and compete." This mentality will undoubtedly be crucial as he steps into one of the NFL's most scrutinized roles.
The Commanders have experienced a revolving door at the quarterback position over the past several years, with a different Week 1 starter each season for the past seven years. Last year, Sam Howell occupied the role, with Kirk Cousins starting back in 2017. Daniels will look to bring stability and success to the position, essential for a team eager to make a strong impact this season.
With the team set to face Tampa Bay in their first game, all eyes will be on Daniels as he seeks to translate his stellar college career and promising preseason performances into regular-season success. The Commanders, and their loyal fanbase, are hoping that Daniels can finally bring some much-needed consistency and excellence to the quarterback position, setting the stage for a new era in Washington football.