Why Jayden Daniels Is the Perfect Quarterback Pick for the Washington Commanders?

Mel Kiper Jr. did it first! Mel Kiper was the first one to stir up the NFL Draft conversation when he ranked LSU’s Jayden Daniels above North Carolina’s Drake Maye as the second-best quarterback for the 2024 NFL Draft. Despite Maye being the long-standing favorite for that spot, Daniels’ exceptional performance towards the end of the college season, capped by winning the Heisman Trophy, shifted public perception. 

On the latest episode of Get Up, Mike Greenberg teams up with Louis Riddick, Booger McFarland, and the ESPN analyst to discuss the major headlines as the 2024 NFL Draft approaches. With just eight days away, the Washington Commanders face a crucial decision as they hold the No. 2 overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft. Should they go with Daniels, or not? 

Mel Kiper Jr. explains why Daniels is a dream fit for the Commanders

In the detailed draft discussion, Mel Kiper Jr. highlighted, yet again, that Jaden Daniels is the optimal choice for the Washington Commanders. Considering the team’s draft assets, which include two second-round and three third-round picks—totaling six picks within the top 100, it makes Daniels the perfect pick. “Jaden Daniels has to be the pick,” Kiper suggested. With significant improvements made in free agency by GM Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn, the team’s roster looks stronger, though still in need of key positions like left tackle and cornerback. 

Daniels, according to the analyst, is a “franchise quarterback.” He has seemingly outperformed other prospects like Drake Maye and JJ McCarthy and following closely behind Caleb Williams is seen as the solid second pick. His playing style is often compared to that of Lamar Jackson, suggesting that Daniels has the potential to significantly impact the team’s performance for the better. 

Should the Washington Commanders draft Daniels?

As the 2024 NFL Draft approaches, there has been substantial buzz around the fact that the Washington Commanders might use their No. 2 pick to select LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels. However, the situation remains uncertain with new general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn keeping their strategies close to the vest. While the Chicago Bears seem set to pick Caleb Williams from USC first overall, Washington’s options also include Drake Maye from UNC and J.J. McCarthy from Michigan. 

The Commanders, holding their first top-two pick since selecting Chase Young in 2020, have been discreet about their plans. Young, a top pick following Joe Burrow, faced setbacks due to injuries, reflecting the risk of high draft choices—a lesson Peters learned firsthand with the San Francisco 49ers’ pick of Trey Lance in 2021. With a history of draft gambles, Peters is now poised to lead a more fruitful rebuild, keeping draft intentions well-guarded and leaving fans speculating until draft night on April 25.