Jayden Daniels has turned the page on his miraculous first season with the Washington Commanders. The gifted quarterback accomplished more than anyone expected in Year 1 of his professional career. He also knows it will count for nothing if these standards aren't sustained.
Some analysts fully believe Daniels' rookie success was the start of something special. Others are more willing to provide a cautionary tale around the dreaded sophomore slump that has impacted so many signal-callers throughout NFL history.
Analyst wary of sophomore slump for Commanders QB Jayden Daniels
Brad Gagnon from The Bleacher Report was among them, placing Daniels at No. 8 in his offseason quarterback rankings. And he's not the first to use C.J. Stroud as the measuring stick, who regressed with the Houston Texans last season after a sensational first-year surge.
"After an OROY season in which he posted similar numbers to [C.J.] Stroud in 2023 while leading Washington to the playoffs, Jayden Daniels is essentially the Texans QB without the sophomore slump. That said, we can't assume the LSU product will keep it rolling in 2025. He could encounter obstacles just as Stroud did, even though the Commanders have smartly added to his arsenal as well as his offensive line this offseason. For now, Daniels holds a spot in the second tier of elite NFL signal-callers."
Brad Gagnon
The sophomore slump can come through various reasons. Complacency from the player. A failure from the franchise to surround their prized possession with the supporting cast needed. Not coping effectively with the bigger target on their back. Or it could be a combination of them all.
None of these apply to the Commanders or Daniels.
His exceptional work ethic and tireless dedication to being great guarantee he won't take anything for granted despite his newfound fame. The same high standards will be set and met accordingly. Daniels will drag his teammates along, and they'll willingly follow the Heisman Trophy winner into battle.
The Commanders have done their part, too. Adam Peters was ultra-aggressive throughout the offseason to improve the options around Daniels. Whether it was re-signing contributors from last season, signing veteran free agents, bold moves in the trade market, or finding value during the draft, the biggest priority was enhancing the chances of progression.
Anything less would have been organizational malpractice. The Commanders have to maximize Daniels' rookie contract. Because if his production takes another step forward, it's going to get a lot more expensive to keep him around.
There's always a chance Daniels' success will be fleeting. Looking at his meticulous preparation, poise, precision, and composure in the biggest moments, the chances of flaming out are minuscule.
