Jayden Daniels is under the microscope arguably more than any other Washington Commanders player this offseason. Fans are optimistic he can evolve quickly into the franchise quarterback this team has craved for decades. There's growing confidence within the building that this is a special player the organization can build around long-term. This all starts by laying the correct foundations over training camp.
Daniels' transition to the Commanders since becoming the No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft was flawless. His tireless work ethic, ability to lead by example, and outstanding on-field production won over even his harshest critics. More importantly, it immediately got the respect of veteran teammates, which is always the hardest battle of all for any high-end pick from the college ranks.
Commanders QB Jayden Daniels wows fans on Day 6 of training camp
It's not been perfect, far from it. Daniels is working on improving his timing with the team's pass-catchers and adjusting to the rigors of NFL life. However, his sixth practice was the summer's best by far according to those in attendance.
Every athletic intangible Daniels has going for him was put on full display. His footwork, arm strength, and accuracy at all three levels of the field stood out considerably. The Heisman Trophy winner's deep ball to Pro Bowl wide receiver Terry McLaurin, in particular, got fans cheering and left the pass-catcher fired up along the way.
Another notable highlight was Daniels finding running back Michael Wiley in stride. The former LSU star connected well with the likes of Zach Ertz during what became a hugely impressive day's work from the dual-threat force.
Daniels is QB1. Dan Quinn isn't ready to confirm this fact, but it's done. Everything else is just a formality.
The signal-caller is drawing rave reviews and with good reason. Future first-ballot Pro Football Hall of Fame linebacker Bobby Wagner was the latest to lavish praise on Daniels, highlighting his confidence as something that's stood out considerably so far based on comments via the team's website.
Yeah, I mean the biggest thing is confidence. He's very, very confident and you want that in the quarterback. As you watch him, he gets more comfortable understanding where the routes are going to be, getting comfortable with the receivers that he is throwing to. I feel like he's in a really, really great space and I'm excited for him to keep going and it's going to be fun to watch him play this season.Bobby Wagner via Commanders.com
There is a long road ahead for Daniels. However, it's hard to ignore the momentum being built.
This looks like a bonafide superstar at the quarterback position. Someone capable of getting the team through clutch moments and putting fans back in the stands. Everyone else must do their part, but the Commanders must be thrilled with the early returns on their significant investment.
The Commanders will go as far as Daniels takes them. He's riding on the crest of a wave right now. At the same time, he's got the elite-level mindset and support system in place to cope with the inevitable rookie adversities he'll face at some stage. Again, this is a tremendous platform to build a promising career.
Daniels will take this exceptional practice in his stride like he does everything else. But it does nothing to lessen the sense of anticipation heading into his first NFL campaign in the nation's capital.
