There are many different examples in NFL history where organizations fail to protect their star quarterback and ultimately get punished in the long term for that mistake.
In the 1970s, Archie Manning was pulverized with the New Orleans Saints before being cast out. Andrew Luck is probably the best example of this with the Indianapolis Colts and his early retirement following the 2018 season.
The Washington Commanders need to understand that lesson. Especially since they now have a top young quarterback on their own to work with.
Jayden Daniels' ascent into superstardom was one for the record books in 2024. The Commanders can take a flier on what the Buffalo Bills did with Josh Allen in terms of protecting the top signal-caller.
It's something the top executive in Buffalo made clear was part of the plan early.
"Ultimately make sure he is protected," Buffalo general manager Brandon Beane said. "How does he play as many games as possible? [Daniels is] an elusive runner as well, so having those conversations with him as well of being smart. We had to have a lot of those with Josh and sometimes still do. He can be a knucklehead sometimes.
"It's just showing him on film, 'Hey, you had an opportunity to get out of bounds. You had an opportunity to get down.' Having those discussions about when do you need to put your body on the line, and when do you not? You can't put him in bubble wrap, but [it's about] protecting him with the line and then him protecting himself."
Buffalo's protection of Allen has worked out for them. They have won their division for five straight years.
If the Commanders can protect Daniels enough, they should remain in title contention on their own moving forward.
