NFL legend backs up what Commanders fans have shouted about Jayden Daniels

The Washington Commanders' preseason didn't get off to the best start against the New England Patriots, as they were decimated to the tune of 48-18.

However, hopes are still high after last year's NFC Championship game appearance, with the obvious reason being that nearly all of Washington's starters got the night off. Most notably, young superstar quarterback Jayden Daniels did not take a snap.

Daniels figures to solidify himself as one of the league's premier signal-callers in Year 2 as he builds off of his NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year campaign. He's also receiving some significant praise as Washington gears up for a Monday Night Football preseason showdown against the Cincinnati Bengals.

Steve Young believes Jayden Daniels can change the prototype for quarterbacks moving forward

During an appearance on The Dan Patrick Show, the legendary former San Francisco 49ers quarterback Steve Young referred to Daniels as the "ultimate prototype" in today's NFL.

He is threatening the line of scrimmage every play.Steve Young

It's high praise from Young, who was considered a revelation for his ability to run with the ball during his playing days. At the time of his retirement, he trailed only Randall Cunningham in career quarterback rushing yards, while leading the statistic for the postseason.

Daniels piled up several accolades throughout his historic 2024 campaign. He broke the record for rushing yards by a rookie quarterback, which was formerly held by Robert Griffin III. His total of 891 yards in that category led all players on the Commanders, while trailing only Brian Robinson Jr. in attempts.

The former LSU standout is equally dangerous as a passer, with his strong deep ball and effortless poise dragging the Commanders from the basement to the NFL's top table. He can go for the home-run play, or he can methodically pick apart the opposing defense to give his own plenty of time to rest. There are very few, if any, holes in his game.

The Athletic's annual quarterback tiers poll, as voted on by general managers and coaches around the NFL, recently rated Daniels as the sixth-best signal-caller in the league and the top name in Tier 2. His placement is the highest ever for a player after their first season, and 17 out of 50 poll contributors placed him in Tier 1.

With the expectation that Daniels will only get better, it can be expected that he'll be widely considered one of the game's elites before too long. Just as Young did before him, he has the potential to revolutionize the quarterback position.

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