Fans have been eagerly waiting for the Commanders vs. Patriots game, hoping to see Washington’s quarterback Jayden Daniels face off against New England’s Drake Maye. However, they’ll be disappointed to hear that Daniels won’t be playing in the preseason finale. While it’s a bummer for fans, the Commanders have their own reasons.

Commanders head coach Dan Quinn has announced the rookie QB, Jayden as the team’s starter. Quinn mentioned that he’s seen enough from Daniels in the preseason to make the call. And now the HC doesn’t want to risk him in a preseason game. On August 23, Zach Selby, the senior writer for the Commanders confirmed it on X, “Jayden Daniels will not play on Sunday against the Patriots.” 

The Commanders selected Daniels in the 2024 NFL Draft following his impressive Heisman Trophy win in college football. Although the regular season is still two weeks away, the rookie QB has already impressed fans with his performance. In his second preseason game, he completed 10-of-12 passes for 78 yards and added 13 rushing yards. But why is he compared to Drake Maye, who hasn’t played any preseason games until now?

Both Maye and Daniels had impressive college careers. The Commanders picked Daniels at No. 2 followed by the Patriots picking another rookie in Drake at No. 3. He had led North Carolina Tar Heels back in 2022, setting a record of 3,800 yards of passing and 35 touchdowns. Though Daniel has already shown his potential, the Patriots’ fans are waiting to see Maye’s performance. And they are equally excited to see his face-off with Daniels. which will not be possible in the preseason finale.

It’s a big decision for the Commanders, and they have high hopes for Jayden Daniels. However, he isn’t alone in missing the preseason finale. Coach Quinn has also revealed a list of players who won’t play in the final game.

Who will sit out the preseason finale alongside Jayden Daniels?

Other than Jayden Daniels, defensive tackle Daron Payne and defensive ends Clelin Ferrell and Dante Fowler Jr., will sit out of the preseason finales. If Daniels is not included, receiver Terry McLaurin, and running backs Austin Ekeler and Brian Robinson Jr., might also be on this list.

Fans were surely expecting Daniels to make it to the field in the finale. But one thing is clear, the game will still be equally exciting. As it should be. This is one of the two prime-time appearances for the Patriots, after their game against the Jets on Thursday Night Football. Though Daniels’ stans will have to wait for him until September 8. The finale might give a sneak peek into the team’s preparation for the season.

Besides this, get the inside scoop with us, and watch the Dual Threat Podcast with BG12, to know what Chris Gronkowski has to say about his NFL journey.