Jayden Daniels has been chosen as the starting quarterback for the Washington Commanders.
Coach Dan Quinn announced on Monday that Daniels will be the starter after observing him through two preseason games and several joint practices. Daniels completed 12 of 15 passes for 123 yards against the New York Jets and Miami Dolphins.
The No. 2 pick from LSU was expected to be Washington’s Week 1 quarterback. However, Quinn wanted to see how the 2023 Heisman Trophy winner performed during training camp before making the final decision. Daniels, with guidance from veteran Marcus Mariota, performed well.
“He went through the whole thing,” Quinn said. “He didn’t miss a beat. He hit all the targets we put in front of him. He’s ready, and he’s earned the right to do that.”
The Commanders will start the regular season on Sept. 8 at Tampa Bay.
Daniels will be Washington’s eighth different Week 1 starting quarterback in as many years.
“Everything in life is, you’ve got to earn it,” Daniels said. “Nothing’s given. So, what (Quinn) and them preach here is competition, and you’ve earned your right to stay.”
Quinn mentioned he has not yet informed the team about Daniels being the starter. He also shared that rookie linebacker Jordan Magee had knee surgery, but it is not season-ending.
Other roster battles are still ongoing, including positions on the offensive line protecting Daniels and in the secondary, where 2023 first-round pick Emmanuel Forbes is competing for a starting spot.
