Jayden Daniels has led the Washington Commanders to the NFC Championship game, and his impressive rookie season is earning praise from across the league.
Rising Praise from Across the League
Philadelphia Eagles defensive coordinator Vic Fangio recently described Daniels as “a young quarterback by birth certificate, not by the tape.” Houston Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud also commended Daniels, saying he’s having “the best rookie year of all time.”
If Daniels and the Commanders beat the Eagles on Sunday, he would make history as the first rookie quarterback to take his team to the Super Bowl. Despite the growing attention, Daniels has remained focused and humble, keeping his eye on the game rather than the spotlight.
A Steady, Focused Leader
Daniels has shown a remarkable ability to stay calm under pressure. “He stays as even-keeled as any player I’ve ever been around,” said Commanders’ top receiver Terry McLaurin. “He treats every game the same, no matter the stage.”
As the first player in Commanders history to throw 25 touchdowns with fewer than 10 interceptions, Daniels has also set the rookie record for most rushing yards by a QB with 891.
His performance has been critical to Washington’s success this season, and he continues to make a case for Stroud’s praise.
Focused on Day-to-Day Improvement
Despite his outstanding season, Daniels is not looking too far ahead. “It would obviously be a blessing, but I’m just focused on how can I be better day by day,” he said. He understands the rarity of the opportunity but keeps his attention on the moment.
Coach Quinn and Team Support
Head coach Dan Quinn praises Daniels’ composure on the field, comparing his demeanor to “The Terminator” because of his focus and ability to block out distractions. Daniels has led Washington to six straight wins, five of which were decided on the final play. He’s thrown 17 touchdowns during this stretch and has been the key factor in the team’s success.
Quinn appreciates Daniels’ poise in tight situations. “He’s got the experience of somebody that’s played a lot more football than a first-year player,” Quinn said.
Gaining Respect from Teammates
Teammates stopped treating Daniels like a rookie early in the season. Veteran tight end Zach Ertz noticed Daniels’ maturity after his Hail Mary pass to Noah Brown in Week 8, and soon after, Ertz said everyone in the organization began seeing him as a leader.
“He was very proactive in his approach to being great,” Ertz said. “He was the first one in the building studying as much as possible.” Daniels’ strong work ethic has helped him stand out.
Preparation Leads to Success
Quinn admires Daniels’ preparation, understanding that the extra work puts the rookie in a position to succeed. “When the moment comes, you’re ready to deliver,” Quinn said, emphasizing the importance of Daniels’ preparation.
Historic Season for the Commanders
Daniels’ leadership has been the driving force behind Washington’s improvement, taking the team from a 4-13 record last season to 12-5 this year.
With his performance, Daniels has also been part of an offense that has committed no turnovers in 10 games this season, the most for the franchise in decades.
Daniels credits his success to his love of football and the joy he finds in the game.
“It’s a blessing to be one of those kids that are able to fulfill their dream and live out their dream of playing on Sundays in the NFL,” Daniels said. His relaxed attitude toward pressure continues to make him a standout in his rookie season.
