Sep 23, 2024; Cincinnati, Ohio, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) reacts after scoring a touchdown against the Cincinnati Bengals in the first half at Paycor Stadium. Katie Stratman-Imagn Images

Commanders must take advantage with Jayden Daniels rookie contract

Originally posted on Washington Commanders on SI
By Jeremy Brener | Last updated Mar 29, 2025 9:00 AM ET

The Washington Commanders have four years where quarterback Jayden Daniels will be getting paid far less than what he is worth.

Daniels proved in his rookie season that he is one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL, but Washington doesn't have to pay him more than his rookie contract until 2029.

During this time, the Commanders should look to spend in other areas of the roster.

Daniels on the cheap

"The reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year, and one of the dozen or so most impactful players in the sport, is merely the 25th-highest-paid player at his position," Bleacher Report contributor Brad Gagnon writes.

The Commanders have already been aggressive in this regard, trading for Laremy Tunsil and Deebo Samuel while also adding cornerback Marshon Lattimore at the trade deadline.

With Daniels only needing a little wedge of the team's cap space, the Commanders should fill out the rest of the roster with top-dollar players at all of the other positions, increasing Washington's chances of winning a Super Bowl.