Nov 3, 2024; East Rutherford, New Jersey, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) scrambles away from New York Giants linebacker Micah McFadden (41) during the first half at MetLife Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images Vincent Carchietta-Imagn Images

Commanders' Jayden Daniels ranks No. 1 in key category

Originally posted on Washington Commanders on SI
By Jeremy Brener | Last updated May 9, 2025 12:00 PM ET

The Washington Commanders have their foundation set with Jayden Daniels under center for the foreseeable future, and that has the franchise in good hands.

Daniels, the No. 2 overall pick in last year's draft, had a phenomenal rookie season where he helped put the Commanders back on the map after a four-win season the year prior.

NFL.com writer Nick Shook ranked all the quarterbacks on rookie contracts, and Daniels was ranked No. 1.

Daniels best among rookie contracts

"Daniels’ rookie season was transformative for Washington. After decades of frustration, Commanders fans have reason to be optimistic about the future," Shook wrote.

"That alone is an immense value for the franchise. Jayden's a calm, composed passer with a live arm and excellent accuracy, a true weapon as a runner, and he attacks every opportunity with a remarkable sense of confidence typically seen only in more experienced passers. He's built for adversity, having engineered four fourth-quarter comebacks in his debut campaign, and has already proven he's capable of elevating a team to new heights. The reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year is also entering Year 2 of his rookie deal. Expect Daniels to be around for a long, long time, and to eventually be paid handsomely."

If Daniels' rookie year was any indication on how the rest of his career will go, the Commanders should have a good team for a very long time. The goal is for the Commanders to get a little further than they did last season, and the more Daniels grows, the better of a chance Washington will have.