Dan Quinn highlights Jayden Daniels’ exceptional skills and poise as a rookie quarterback leading the Commanders to success
Washington: When the Commanders picked Jayden Daniels second overall last April, they were hoping he’d help turn things around. And wow, did he deliver!
In just a few months, Daniels led the team to five straight wins, pushing them into the playoffs for the first time since 2020. They even snagged their first playoff win since 2005 against the Bucs, and then they crushed the Lions 45-31 to reach the NFC title game for the first time in 33 years.
Daniels had an impressive game, completing 22 of 31 passes for 299 yards and two touchdowns, plus running for 51 yards. He’s now one of only six rookie quarterbacks to start in a conference title game. After the game, Coach Dan Quinn couldn’t help but rave about him.
Quinn said, “He just has a different poise about him than most and he’s a rare competitor.” He really believes Daniels wants to be the one to make the big plays, just like a basketball player wanting the last shot. That kind of mindset is what makes him special.
Even though the Commanders might have arrived at this point sooner than expected, they’re not going to catch anyone off guard anymore. With a top-notch quarterback like Daniels, they’re set up for success in the NFL. It wouldn’t be shocking if he becomes the first rookie to lead his team to the Super Bowl.