The Washington Commanders are hitting the reset button this season. With a new backroom staff and a potential rookie leading the line, things are looking exciting. Former defensive coordinator Dan Quinn, fresh off a successful stint at the AT&T stadium, has been handed the keys to head coach. As the Commanders look to build for the future with their second overall draft pick in QB Jayden Daniels.

Jayden is coming off a sensational season playing for the LSU Tigers. With a Heisman Trophy to his name, Jayden threw 40 touchdowns and 10 rushing touchdowns while getting just four interceptions, thereby allowing him to burst onto the scene and showcase his capability as a dual-threat QB. Speaking with NFL insider Jonathan Jones, Dan Quinn shared his thoughts about the Commanders’ Rookie QB Jayden, who is brewing with confidence. “He is playing the position. Excellent. Not just throwing and so that’s the thing that somebody wouldn’t see at a pro day of changing a protection, getting into the right thing, making the right decision of where to go with the football,” Dan said.

Quinn was quick to point out Jayden’s versatility and his readiness to contribute beyond his natural position as QB. Continuing on his initial views, Dan points out, “He has the confidence of an older player and the humility and the work ethic of a rookie. And so I think it’s this excellent ratio of like the grittiness to go and battle and prove it.” When it comes to work ethic and confidence, there is no comparing Jayden, as the rookie QB started 55 games during his five seasons in college, thereby finishing with 12,750 passing yards and 89 touchdowns to his name.

For now, Jayden doesn’t have that starting spot guaranteed to him. At the same time, remaining in open competition with Veteran QB Marcus Mariota. Speaking about this hurdle of QB1 status, Daniels stated, “I like competing. Regardless if I’m announced as the starter or not, I still have to compete. You can’t be content with your job or be comfortable.” However, this is not the first time Jayden has faced this situation. As the last time he was in a similar spot at LSU, Daniels ended up winning a Heisman Trophy a year later. But seeing Jayden’s ambition to succeed, he would surely be eyeing that QB1 spot sooner or later in the Commanders jersey.

Can Jayden Daniels be the face of the Washington Commanders’ revolution?

Although the Commanders have high hopes for their No.2 overall Draft pick, he might not be able to lead this revolution without a strong support system. The team had mediocre players playing in key positions over the years, thereby hindering their offensive game. Therefore, when talking about Jayden’s influence, ESPN analyst Ryan Clark rightfully pointed out, “Jayden Daniels is going to have that C.J. Stroud-type of year. He’s going to be that guy we’re talking about going into the 2025 season with a chance to launch himself into the upper-echelon of quarterbacks.”

C.J. Stroud is a great example, as he is coming off an impressive first season playing for the Texans. With 4,108 passing yards, 23 touchdowns, and five interceptions, Stroud finished the season by claiming the Offensive Rookie of the Year honor. Moreover, he also guided the team to a playoff appearance on the back of those consistent performances. Newly appointed Houston HC DeMeco Ryans also played his part in this rapid transformation.

Similarly, Dan Quinn, with his new OC Kliff Kingsbury, would also be hoping that a favorable outcome takes place at the Commanders Field. Well, Jayden might not have to handle all the responsibilities alone. With potential breakout star Brain Robinson Jr and veteran free agent signing Austin Ekeler, the Commanders’ offense could help Daniels prosper. If all three of them can hit the ground running, the Commanders’ team would be a force to reckon with. But as the new season draws near, we will soon discover whether this recipe will be a success or a disaster waiting to happen.