The Washington Commanders have their starting quarterback for what they hope will be the next decade or more. Those in power took Jayden Daniels at No. 2 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft after being convinced by the prospect during their comprehensive assessments. He's already started to repay this faith after a sensational start to the campaign.
Daniels looks like a genuine superstar with the poise and dynamism capable of waking this sleeping giant. His exceptional showing on Monday Night Football at the Cincinnati Bengals sent hype through the roof and brought more national attention than ever before. Dan Quinn is trying to keep everyone focused amid increasing adulation. That's going to be difficult if the same trend continues.
The Commanders made a concerted effort to place a strong support system around Daniels to smooth his transition. Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury knows how to nurture young signal-callers and is continuing this trend with the former LSU standout. Tavita Pritchard - the progressive quarterbacks coach and holdover from the previous staff - is also having a positive impact on the Heisman Trophy winner.
Who is the Commanders' backup quarterback during the 2024 NFL season?
Washington also has plenty of veteran experience alongside Daniels in the quarterback room. Those in power opted to take three through onto their 53-man roster, which made more sense when one considers Marcus Mariota went to injured reserve soon after.
Mariota was the veteran free-agent signing brought in to push and mentor Daniels. He never had a legitimate shot at becoming the No. 1 option. However, the Commanders needed him more for his off-the-field contribution than on it.
Just when Mariota is ready to return remains to be seen. Until then, the Commanders have Jeff Driskel as Daniels' primary backup. He's another with starting experience in the pros and is dependable enough if called upon. The Commanders hope that won't be happening anytime soon.
Driskel is a calming influence who knows general manager Adam Peters from their time together on the San Francisco 49ers. He'll likely drop to the third option once Mariota is healthy, but the chance of Washington trading the former No. 2 pick out of Oregon cannot be completely dismissed depending on how things unfold in the coming weeks.
The Commanders also have Sam Hartman on the practice squad. He was a high-priority target in undrafted free agency and formed a close relationship with Daniels over Washington's offseason program. He's nothing more than a developmental piece right now, but he could become the No. 2 long-term if the right progress arrives.
Washington's hope for the future starts and ends with Daniels. He's got the hopes of the organization in the palm of his hand. His electrifying playing style has won over even his harshest critics among the fanbase. It's early days, but it looks like the Commanders finally have their guy at long last.
