The Washington Commanders put their faith in Jayden Daniels, and the quarterback is looking to repay that confidence early and often in his NFL career.
As Daniels enters rookie minicamp with the Commanders, where he’ll learn how to play professional football, the former LSU star is ready for the moment he’s been prepped his entire life for. From conversations with former Commanders quarterback Doug Williams to Heisman Trophy memories, Daniels is utilizing all the tools in his bag.
“I mean, I had conversations with Doug [Williams], ever since I met him at 18-years-old. Always a good guy. Obviously what he did for this organization, what he did for black quarterback in general, it means a lot,” Daniels stated. “For me, it’s not really looking at it like, what can I do for the team? It’s how can I help the team get better each and every day, myself included.”
Alas, that’s what it’s going to take for Daniels to become the leader Washington needs. The former Tigers quarterback is looking to change the narrative around the Commanders, and he’s hoping to usher in a new era for Washington.
“I’m very confident,” Daniels added, via the team’s official website. “Obviously, it’s a new regime there and, you know, I’m excited just to come in and really just change the culture and help the team win in each and every way that I can. Come in, work hard and we’ll see where the course takes itself.”
Moreover, the 23-year-old Daniels played three seasons at Arizona State before transferring to LSU to play under head coach Brian Kelly. Daniels took his game to another level in Baton Rouge, throwing for 6,725 yards, 57 touchdowns and seven interceptions on 70.2% passing across two seasons. He added 2,019 yards and 21 touchdowns on the ground.
Moving forward, he’ll have plenty of veteran talent to work with on the offensive side of the ball. The Commanders further helped him out by adding former Kansas State tight end Ben Sinnott in the second round and former Rice wideout Luke McCaffrey in the third.
“I’m excited. I’m excited to come in and get to work,” Daniels stated. “I know Jahan [Dotson] previously just, you know, we’re kind of around the same age. Obviously, what Terry [McLaurin] has done at the next level. You got a great running back in Brian Robinson [Jr.]. You know, Austin Ekeler, those guys are very explosive players. New additions with Zach Ertz.
“I’m just happy to come in and learn how to be a pro. I’m excited to get to work. Excited to meet my new teammates.”
Jayden Daniels is saying all the right things, but his play on the field is what can really change things for the Commanders. We’ll see how the former LSU star adjusts to Washington, and the NFL next season.
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