Jayden Daniels didn't pass, but it didn't matter
As previously mentioned, Jayden Daniels was without some prominent offensive playmakers for the Washington Commanders' second preseason game. But it quickly became apparent that they wouldn't be needed during his brief time on the field.
Terry McLaurin wasn't available despite coming off the physically unable to perform list. Veteran tight end Zach Ertz got the night off after starring over training camp. The Commanders also didn't risk wide receiver Noah Brown, who's been brought along gradually throughout the summer after getting carted off at mandatory minicamp.
This allowed Daniels to hone his chemistry with other weapons in the passing game. And Kliff Kingsbury dialed up a heavy run element to set the tone early.
Deebo Samuel Sr. and Chris Rodriguez Jr. started things off with two big runs for lofty gains. If anyone was wondering why the Commanders are looking to offloas Brian Robinson Jr. to the highest bidder, this was the best possible example.
After that, it was left to Daniels to finish things off with his customary efficiency. And after putting himself in harm's way, that was all head coach Dan Quinn wanted to see.
McLaurin should hopefully be back soon. But that doesn't detract from how integral this dynamic rushing atack could be to Kingsbury's offensive strategy with Daniels leading the charge.
Jayden Daniels' pre-snap command
There were only two players who started the NFC Championship game on Washington's starting offense aside from Jayden Daniels in this one. Even so, the complete control displayed by the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year was noticeable throughout his stint under center.
Daniels never looked like a rookie in many aspects in 2024. With an increased level of comfort in Kliff Kingsbury's schematic concepts, which were rightfully tailored around the quarterback's gifts, he looks in complete command.
One of Daniels' most overlooked traits is his ability to read defenses pre-snap. He's got sound recognition of coverages and knows how to alter protections accordingly. If the time calls to check out of a play, the Heisman Trophy winner can do that efficiently and with minimal fuss.
This puts everyone at ease. It was a relatively small sample size from Daniels, but he never looked out of sync with center Tyler Biadasz or uncomfortable with what the Cincinnati Bengals were throwing at him. And judging by how cool he was in the highest stakes situations last season, one can expect this trend to continue.
Daniels operated with his customary demeanor and control. This was a less pressurized setting, but any signs of the second-year complacency that befalls some who start their careers off well were non-existent.