Jayden Daniels Mitchell Leff/GettyImages

Jayden Daniels turning heads at OTAs with jaw-dropping transformation

Originally posted on Riggo's Rag | By Dean Jones | Last updated May 28, 2025 12:25 PM ET

Jayden Daniels took the league by storm in 2024. The Washington Commanders quarterback is not the sort of character to rest on his laurels either, something that stands to benefit the franchise considerably for the next decade or more.

And it didn't take long for Daniels to turn heads at Phase 3 organized team activities thanks to his jaw-dropping transformation throughout the offseason.

The biggest knock on Daniels during his pre-draft assessments was whether he could withstand the punishment typically received by dual-threat quarterbacks around the NFL. He proved his toughness and more, especially playing through a rib complication suffered on a brutal hit versus the Carolina Panthers.

Commanders QB Jayden Daniels enhanced his physique entering Year 2

However, Daniels was eager to keep similar complications to a minimum. The former LSU star has clearly been working hard to improve his physique since Washington's NFC Championship game loss against the Philadelphia Eagles. He's noticeably bigger in the arms and looks pretty well-defined according to those in attendance.

Bigger? Swole? pic.twitter.com/zRTcNVzmfD
— Ben Standig (@BenStandig) May 28, 2025

This was a sentiment echoed by Kliff Kingsbury during his pre-practice media availability. The offensive coordinator stated that Daniels looks stronger in every conceivable way. It's only small, but it's a big sign that the Heisman Trophy winner is putting in the hard yards to ensure his rookie accomplishments become the start of something special.

spot the difference pic.twitter.com/sVbddOfQD1
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) May 22, 2025

The Commanders were drawn to Daniels' work ethic and fierce inner desire to succeed. His talent was undeniable, but having this mentality set him apart from other candidates at No. 2 overall. Washington made the right choice.

The fact that he's avoiding any complacency whatsoever after achieving so much in Year 1 speaks volumes. Daniels is better prepared to cope with the rigors that come with an NFL season. That's a scary proposition for the rest of the league.

Washington did everything possible to surround Daniels with an improved supporting cast this offseason. There are no excuses, not that he wants any. He wants to be the best and lead the Commanders to heights not seen for decades. He's also willing to go above and beyond the call of duty to make this dream a reality.

And don't be surprised if Daniels puts the NFL on notice for a second straight year.