Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn has officially announced quarterback Jayden Daniels as their starter for their 2024 season opener on September 8 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The rookie from LSU edged Marcus Mariota, Jeff Driskel, and Sam Hartman for the starting role.
Quinn mentioned in a press conference that Daniels gives them the best chance to win. It’s not a wild statement because the 23-year-old quarterback has been manifesting a glimpse of his Heisman Trophy-winning form during his first two preseason games.
Daniels has 12 completions out of 15 passing attempts, a 100.2 passer rating, and a rushing touchdown in two games. He had two completions for 45 passing yards and a rushing touchdown in his first taste of NFL action against the New York Jets.
Commanders officially announce rookie Jayden Daniels as starting QB. pic.twitter.com/I2MxSUYnZQ
— NFL (@NFL) August 19, 2024
The Commanders selected Daniels second overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, one spot after 2022 Heisman Trophy winner Caleb Williams. In addition to winning last year’s Heisman Trophy, he also won the Associated Press College Football Player of the Year Award. Daniels received a Consensus All-American nod and the SEC Offensive Player of the Year honors.
Daniels will facilitate an offense featuring Terry McLaurin, Brian Robinson Jr., Jahan Dotson, Dyami Brown, veteran tight end Zach Ertz, and fellow rookie Ben Sinnott.
-Lance Fernandez