Jayden Daniels was almost out of sight, out of mind last season amid so many injury problems. However, there is a growing sense that the quarterback is about to remind everyone what a special player he is.
The Washington Commanders will be counting heavily on Daniels this season. Not having him for more than seven games had a ripple effect, leaving him forgotten, even compared to others in the 2024 draft class. It's all motivation for what comes next, and the signal-caller is working hard to make sure he bounces back.
If there are no further injury problems, the new scheme being devised by offensive coordinator David Blough reaps instant rewards, and Daniels' supporting cast raises their performance levels, it's all systems go. And despite missing out on ESPN insider Jeremy Fowler's top 10 quarterbacks list, getting an honorable mention instead, the reports around the NFL remain high.
NFC executive predicts Jayden Daniels to remind the world who he is
An unnamed NFC executive anticipates Daniels will return to his old self this season. His decision-making and accuracy were primary reasons behind the optimism, and the LSU product could be the guy who people are talking about as the one who takes that big leap in 2026.
"I know he was hurt [in 2025], but I think this is the year he really makes his stamp and he's the guy we're all talking about as having taken the next step. Such a good decision-maker and very accurate."
Daniels is a driven figure. He wants to be the very best, and he will stop at nothing until this goal is met. The likes of Caleb Williams and Drake Maye are gaining more plaudits, but it's recency bias and nothing more.
If Daniels returns to anything like his 2024 form, the narrative will flip on its head again. And this ambitious franchise will be in a much better place.
The Commanders have improved their roster. It looks more balanced, more youthful, and more athletic. But when it's all said and done, they will only go as far as Daniels takes them.
Fortunately, the Commanders are in very good hands.
Daniels has the poise, precision, dynamism, and football intelligence to take off. Learning to take fewer risks would be advisable. But in terms of overall gifts, very few have a complete-package outlook like the Heisman Trophy winner.
The most dangerous part? Daniels now has doubters to silence. If he can stay healthy, nobody will be safe.
And the conversation will shift in his favor once again.
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