Washington Commanders Teammates Wowed by Jayden Daniels

With the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Washington Commanders selected LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels. The franchise is hopeful that he can be the franchise leader they have been seeking for years, as he will be the face of the new regime under general manager Adam Peters and head coach Dan Quinn.

With rookie minicamp getting underway, all eyes are on Jayden Daniels as he took the field for the first time with his new team. There wasn’t much that he could show in an hour of practice, but his teammates were left very impressed by what they saw.

“He’s a stud,” third-round receiver Luke McCaffrey said. “I know he’s one heck of a quarterback and a lot of fun to play with from a personality standpoint. I’ve had a blast in these 24 hours with him. … He’s just fun to be around; he’s good energy.”

The reigning Heisman Trophy winner will have some major expectations heading to Washington. A quarterback has been a major issue for the franchise, as they have gone through eight different starters in the last four seasons.

Continuity in the position has been nonexistent. The last time the Washington Commanders had the same starting quarterback for more than three seasons was Mark Rypien from 1989-1993.

That is a streak that Jayden Daniels will hopefully end. His presence at rookie minicamp led to a lot of attention, as about 55 media members attended; according to a team’s spokesman, that is about 20 more than in recent seasons.

“Just being myself, being a hard worker,” he said. “Don’t try to be somebody I’m not. People see who’s authentic and who’s not. Try to make connections, talk to people. Obviously I’m 23, it’s a lot of different age ranges in this locker room, so try to relate as much as possible, show them I’m all about the team, I’m all about hard work.”

That is something the Washington Commanders have to love hearing. While many people may not view rookie minicamp as a big deal, it is important for the young guys to learn the ropes of being a professional. Jayden Daniels is handling himself like a multi-year veteran, which is as encouraging as anything he showed in the limited practice.