5 major observations from Jayden Daniels' performance at Eagles in Week 11

Jayden Daniels' progressions

One of the biggest positives surrounding Jayden Daniels' impressive rookie campaign so far is his ability to go through progressions like a seasoned veteran. The Washington Commanders have benefitted greatly from his on-field vision and decisiveness. Both of which deserted him for the most part in Week 11 on Thursday Night Football.

Daniels tended to focus his attention on one side of the field rather than going through information in his typically effective manner. The Philadelphia Eagles' defense nullified almost every threat posed by the Commanders. There was also less time in the pocket than normal thanks to a less-than-stellar display from the offensive tackle tandem of rookie Brandon Coleman and veteran Andrew Wylie.

It's easy to forget Daniels is still a rookie. His jaw-dropping start coupled with a seamless transition sent this to the back of everyone's minds. There were always going to be tough stretches. It also doesn't help that he is currently playing with restrictions to the ribs and the cut on his finger that needed treatment from the medical staff.

Even if there's the slightest doubt in a quarterback's mind, that's when they go away from what works so well. That proved to be the case with Daniels, whose free-flowing progressions weren't evident nearly enough in this divisional clash.

Jayden Daniels' disjointed night

Something was amiss all evening with Jayden Daniels and the Commanders' offense. One could point to Austin Ekeler and Brian Robinson Jr. as the only two players to emerge with any credit. It was uncharacteristically disjointed and the quarterback was never able to generate sustained momentum.

Washington's defense held its ground in difficult circumstances. They tired near the end and paid the price. Daniels' interception chasing the game late put the exclamation point on his worst outing as a professional by a considerable margin.

Daniels' production has tailed off over the last two games. The explosiveness and confidence that were so prevalent over the first half of the season is disintegrating. The Commanders need to get back down to basics with the first-year pro and ensure this slump doesn't jeopardize all the hard work accomplished to get to this point.

It's a slight blip rather than anything too concerning. Daniels looked like a rookie for one of the first times this season. But the Commanders still have all to play for at 7-4 with a decent-looking stretch of games before and after the bye week.

And the extra time to recuperate shouldn't do any harm, either.

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