The Washington Commanders might have just landed their franchise quarterback, and it’s all thanks to Dan Quinn’s smooth moves behind the wheel. He’s got some serious “chauffeuring” skills that might have sealed the deal for LSU stud Jayden Daniels. And it seems like that personal touch worked its magic, ’cause, despite some initial concerns about the Commanders hosting multiple QB prospects at the same time, Daniels’s latest comments signal he is now all in.
Daniels himself spilled the beans to reporters, calling his pre-draft visit to Washington “dope” and unlike any other team’s formal evaluation process. While most teams put prospects through their paces with playbook tests and grilling interviews, the Commanders rolled out the red carpet. Quinn himself picked up Daniels from the airport, with GM Adam Peters waiting in the wings to whisk the QB away for some prime wining and dining.
“It’ll be fun to be able to go there,” Daniels said, practically giving the Commanders a verbal commitment on live TV. He might be already picturing himself rocking that burgundy and gold jersey!
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#Commanders HC Dan Quinn personally picked up Jayden Daniels?!
It might be time to order those Jayden Daniels jerseys after all…#HTTC https://t.co/zMd00WG4Sg
— brandon (@DrakeMayeMVP) April 16, 2024
ESPN’s Adam Schefter previously reported Daniels’ agent wasn’t too pleased with the Commanders’ group visit approach, even liking a few social media posts that called out the team for it. “Daniels thought it would be a visit for just him, but Washington essentially opened up the process.” ESPN’s John Keim reported that Washington hosted Daniels, UNC’s Drake Maye, Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. and Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy at the same time over the days of Tuesday and Wednesday. But As per Albert Breer of MMQB Quinn and the Commanders smoothed things over with their star recruit.
Now, we all know the Commanders have had their fair share of QB struggles over the years. From Robert Griffin III’s meteoric rise and fall to the revolving door of signal-callers, this franchise has been searching for that elusive franchise guy for what feels like forever. Will they learn from past mistakes and surround Daniels with the talent and coaching he needs to thrive? Let’s dive into that burning question.
Will Commanders learn from past mistakes with top quarterback as they eye Jayden Daniels?
The Commanders’ track record with quarterbacks has been checkered, to say the least. From Joe Theismann to the brief but promising tenure of Robert Griffin III, the franchise has struggled to maintain long-term success at the game’s most crucial position. But with the potential addition of Jayden Daniels, they have a chance to reset their trajectory.
Daniels’ arrival alone, however, is not a guarantee of success. As the team witnessed with RG3, having a talented quarterback is only part of the equation. The Commanders must learn from their past mistakes and provide Daniels with the necessary support system to thrive – a solid offensive line to keep him upright, dynamic playmakers to stretch the field, and a coaching staff that understands how to maximize his skill set.
“We have a chance to be real good,” Daniels said of the quarterback draft class to reporters. “A lot of special talent in this draft.” However, for the Commanders to truly capitalize on that talent, they must commit to surrounding Daniels with the right pieces, something they failed to do consistently during RG3’s tenure.
With a new regime led by General Manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn, the Commanders have an opportunity to reshape their fortunes quickly – but only if they learn from past mistakes. Last season’s dismal 4-13 record underscores the need for significant improvements across the board. Do you think Daniels can be the gamechangers for Commanders?
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