Jayden Daniels is impressing opponents with his running ability and is on track to win the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year Award. His running plays are a key reason the Washington Commanders are heading to the playoffs, along with his ability to throw the ball.
“That guy’s an absolute beast,” said Atlanta Falcons coach Raheem Morris after Daniels rushed for 127 yards on 16 carries. “He’s a tough tackle. He’s hell on wheels.”
Daniels’ speed has become a major asset to Washington’s running game, even as Brian Robinson Jr. has struggled to perform like he did earlier in the season.
The rookie quarterback has led the Commanders in rushing yards in half of their games, including four of the last five, and his mobility opens up the offense, which ranks fifth in scoring in the NFL.
“He is a dangerous player — and not by design that some of these runs took place,” said Falcons coach Dan Quinn. “I cringe sometimes, but I also know what the competitor is, too.”
Daniels passed Robert Griffin III — Washington’s last hope to turn the franchise around in 2012 — for the most rushing yards by a rookie QB. With 864 yards on the ground, Daniels leads the team in rushing, ahead of Robinson with a better average per carry. Daniels has also rushed for six touchdowns and thrown for 25.
His 31 total touchdowns are the third-most by a rookie QB, behind Justin Herbert’s 36 in 2020 and Cam Newton’s 35 in 2011. Daniels’ five touchdowns in the last 30 seconds of regulation or overtime are the most by any player at his position since the 1970 AFL-NFL merger.
“He’s the most mature rookie I’ve ever been around,” said tight end Zach Ertz, who caught his second touchdown pass from Daniels on Sunday to help the team beat Atlanta in overtime.
“Whether it was OTAs when we’re working two-minute drill against the defense or with the opportunity to go to the playoffs or solidify ourselves with an opportunity to go to the playoffs, he’s literally the same guy.”
