Jayden Daniels Shines in Commanders’ Playoff Push

DETROIT — Jayden Daniels, the Washington Commanders‘ rookie quarterback, is making waves in his debut NFL season. The No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft has led the Commanders to a 12-5 record, throwing 25 touchdowns with a 69% completion rate and a 70.5 QBR. On Saturday, Daniels faces his toughest test yet against the Detroit Lions in a high-stakes playoff game.

Daniels, a former standout at LSU and Arizona State, signed a fully guaranteed four-year contract worth $37.8 million, including a $24.3 million signing bonus. His rookie deal includes escalating salaries and bonuses, with the Commanders holding a fifth-year option to extend his contract through 2028.

“It’s the greatest rookie season of all time,” said an analyst on ESPN‘s *Get Up*. “There will never be one that equals it.” Daniels’ performance has drawn comparisons to legendary rookie campaigns, with many calling him a potential franchise quarterback.

At LSU, Daniels amassed 12,749 passing yards, 89 touchdowns, and 3,307 rushing yards over his college career. He transferred to LSU in 2022 after three seasons at Arizona State, where he set multiple records and led the Sun Devils to an 18-13 record. At LSU, he went 20-7, winning the 2023 Cheez-It Citrus Bowl and the 2024 ReliaQuest Bowl.

Daniels’ journey to the NFL began in San Bernardino, California, where he was a four-star recruit at Cajon High School. He finished his high school career with 14,007 passing yards, 170 touchdowns, and 3,645 rushing yards, earning him a spot in the Elite 11 and the Under Armour All-American Game.

As the Commanders prepare for their playoff showdown, all eyes are on Daniels. A win against the Lions could cement his status as one of the NFL’s brightest young stars.