Washington, D.C. – After years of disappointment, the Washington Commanders have pinned their hopes on quarterback Jayden Daniels, the Heisman Trophy winner selected with the second pick in the draft. With a reward of roughly $37 million, Daniels steps into one of the highest-pressure roles in the D.C. area.
Coming off a successful season at LSU where he completed over 70% of his passes and set a record for the highest passer rating in Football Bowl Subdivision history, Daniels brings a dynamic skill set to the Commanders. Known for his ability to make pinpoint throws under pressure and excel as a deep-ball thrower, Daniels is poised to lead the team to victory.
General Manager Adam Peters and the Commanders’ organization had their sights set on Daniels for months leading up to the draft. Through closed-door meetings and meticulous planning in Ashburn, the team solidified their decision to draft Daniels, confident in his abilities both on and off the field.
While observers speculated on the Commanders’ draft intentions, Peters and his team managed to keep their plans under wraps until the selection was announced. Even Daniels himself was not entirely sure where he would end up, but after engaging conversations with the Commanders’ staff, he is eager to make an impact and help bring victories to D.C. and the DMV community.
Described by Peters as “special in every way,” Daniels’ dual threat as a passer and rusher sets him apart in the league. His unique ability to process and read the field, deliver accurate passes under pressure, and create havoc for opposing defenses align perfectly with what the Commanders were seeking in their next quarterback.
Looking ahead, Daniels will work to fill out his frame and minimize unnecessary hits in the pocket. Despite the challenges that lie ahead, the Commanders value his dynamic playmaking ability and elite mental processing skills that make him a valuable asset to the team.
His selection has garnered excitement and support from teammates and fans alike, with high expectations for Daniels to lead the Commanders to success both on and off the field. As he begins his journey with the team, Daniels is enthusiastic about the opportunity to learn, grow, and make a positive impact in Washington, D.C. and beyond.