Jayden Daniels has positioned himself as the clear favorite for this season’s NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award, and many agree it should be a foregone conclusion.
This LSU graduate has revitalized a struggling franchise that underwent a major overhaul after a change in ownership and the dismissal of its head coach and general manager.
During his debut season, Daniels orchestrated an incredible turnaround, guiding the team to eight additional wins.
He then led the Commanders through a remarkable playoff run, defeating the No. 3 seed Tampa Bay Buccaneers 23-20 and the No. 1 seed Detroit Lions 45-31.
These victories have secured Washington’s first NFC Championship game appearance since 1991.
Daniels’ Record-Breaking Performance
What makes this feat even more remarkable is that Daniels has delivered four touchdowns in the playoffs without a single turnover. Across 19 offensive possessions, the Commanders have punted only once, underscoring their dominance under his leadership.
The franchise also celebrated Daniels’ historic milestone following their divisional-round victory.
With 5,113 combined yards this season (4,135 passing and 978 rushing), he has surpassed all previous records for rookies in NFL history.
Acknowledging this achievement, the team shared a social media post reading, “That Kid,” accompanied by a graphic commemorating his record-setting performance.
Praise from C.J. Stroud
Daniels’ extraordinary season hasn’t gone unnoticed by others in the league. Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud, who himself set rookie records just last year, expressed admiration for his close friend on Monday.
“I couldn’t be prouder of him,” Stroud told reporters. “In my eyes, he’s had the best rookie year ever.
Records are made to be broken, and he’s shattered so many. I don’t usually root for other teams, but I’m cheering for my guy and the Commanders.”
