Dan Quinn Praises Rookie QB Jayden Daniels

Statistically, Daniels was prodigious after arriving on campus in Baton Rouge, throwing for 57 touchdowns against just seven interceptions over the last two seasons. His 11.7 yards per passing attempt were first in the nation by a country mile (1.0 yards ahead of second place Jason Bean of Kansas University), showcasing his proclivity for pushing the ball downfield with accuracy and touch.

Daniels doesn’t just come equipped with a strong throwing arm, however. He’s a brilliant scrambler with the rushing mentality of a halfback, often creating extra yardage where he can, as evidenced by his gargantuan 8.4 yards per carry last season. His dual-threat ability is reminiscent of Justin Fields when he was at Ohio State, though Daniels has 11 more games of starting experience than Fields did when the latter entered the pros.

Quinn’s praise of Daniels didn’t just stop at the No. 2 pick’s talents, though. He also commended the quarterback for his command of the offense and knowledge of other position groups.

Daniels has looked smooth throwing the ball in rookie camp, showcasing the quick release and impressive footwork that made scouts fall in love with him during the pre-draft process. Drills are just that, but it must be tantalizing for Washington coaches and fans to watch the most talented QB to wear a Commanders’ uniform since Kirk Cousins skipped town in 2018.

Despite past inconsistencies, Daniels’ proclivity for rapid improvement portends a strong showing from the dual-threat signal caller in his rookie season. If he can build on his Heisman-winning campaign from his final collegiate season, there’s no reason the 23-year-old can’t be in the running for the Offensive Rookie of the Year award.Growing pains are to be expected, of course, but Daniels may contain the rare mix of intangibles and raw talent that only the best quarterbacks in the world have. If his immediate rapport with his top receivers is any evidence, Daniels is quickly becoming a beloved figure, both inside and outside the Commanders’ building.