Commanders’ rookie QB Jayden Daniels is in the spotlight as the club prepares for the upcoming season. After being drafted second overall, fans and analysts have high expectations of the 23-year-old. However, Daniels’ starting QB status will depend on something that head coach Dan Quinn recently revealed.  

Quinn prioritizes execution over eye-catching numbers or highlight-reel plays. He stated, “The reps are now happening, but how are you doing in the execution of those, whether that’s playing quarterback, tackle, nickel, or safety?” about the current training camp, stressing the importance of correct execution for all young players, not just Daniels.

When asked what Quinn would need to see in Daniels to be confident for the starting position, the Commanders HC said, “The expectation is just to see how familiar he is with the concepts, and making sure—all right, this one’s we gonna keep and this one we don’t in terms of the things he has the most comfort with. So, you know, it’s all about execution!” 

Therefore, J-Daniels must thoroughly understand the offensive scheme to select plays that best fit his skill set and eliminate those that don’t. Quinn went on to say, “He’s really just running the system now,” emphasizing the significance of useful application. Needless to say, HC Quinn prioritizes understanding the team’s plan. This rigorous approach will let Daniels adapt theory to the field and make informed decisions. 

Commanders’ faithful are excited for the start of the season, and Coach Quinn has made it clear that Jayden Daniels‘ ability to read plays—rather than just having natural ability—will determine whether or not he’s the starting QB. But a key question still stands: can the rookie QB run the offense and become the starter, or will his shortcomings leave him as an underdog?

Can the Commanders’ rookie run the offense (and skeptics over)?

The Washington Commanders’ second-round NFL draft pick from LSU, Jayden Daniels, stunned many. Fans who wanted Michigan QB J.J. McCarthy, North Carolina QB Drake Maye, or Ohio State’s Marvin Harrison Jr. were confused. As fans dispute the Commanders’ judgment, the rookie is under immense pressure.

ESPN’s Mike Clay predicts a mixed rookie season for Daniels. While Clay anticipates Daniels to be the top rushing QB, outrunning even the #1 overall pick, he might fall behind J.J. McCarthy in passing yards and touchdowns. His analysis implies all five top-drafted QBs, including Daniels, could see meaningful playing time this year. Overall, rookie QBs who start 14 games average 3,433 yards and 18.4 touchdowns. Clay predicts that if Daniels gets those starts, he could land 577 running yards and 5 touchdowns. 

Will Jayden Daniels stand up to HC Quinn’s, analysts, and fans’ expectations? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure: Daniels has the rushing potential, and who knows, he might surprise everyone!