Jayden Daniels has some new doubters to silence next season. The Washington Commanders didn't have their franchise player available much in 2025, but his former college coach believes that could be about to change on their road to instant redemption.
Daniels is uber-talented. His meteoric rise as a rookie was sensational. Featuring just seven times last season was extremely disappointing, but the quarterback is eager to right this wrong and get the Commanders back among the playoff hopefuls next time around.
And for veteran coach-turned-analyst Herm Edwards, there are some tired narratives around Daniels that only he can dispel.
Herm Edwards thinks Commanders will be dangerous if Jayden Daniels stays healthy
During a recent appearance on Good Morning Football, Edwards highlighted his confidence in Daniels. He noted how the signal-caller was almost always healthy in college. He also thought some better luck on the injury front could be enough to propel the Commanders into the upper echelons around the NFL again.
"Jayden's got to stay healthy, he knows that. I love the kid. Magic first year in the league. This team has the potential to do that when he's fully healthy. Never got hurt for me at all at Arizona State. Played every game. Came to every practice. He reminds me of Randall Cunningham. I think when you look at Washington, if he can stay healthy, this team is good. They've got a good football team over there."
The Commanders have made significant roster improvements this offseason. But this is a quarterback-driven league for a reason.
Washington will only go as far as Daniels takes them. The No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft proved how far he could take the Commanders in Year 1 of his professional career, surging them to the NFC Championship game. The drop-off was just as drastic without him, so health is paramount moving forward.
Daniels is a top talent. He's a dynamic dual-threat who should be better insulated in David Blough's new scheme. And in terms of motivation, the rising critics provide plenty.
While the concerns are warranted after last season, it's easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. Daniels has been highly durable throughout his career. All three injuries last season were out of his control. Obviously, improving his ability to avoid unnecessary contact will help, but nobody should be pressing the panic button just yet.
There is a lot on the line for Daniels in 2026. He's out to remind the world just who he is. And with a strong campaign, there could also be a huge contract extension on the table.
Staying on the field is the most important thing. If Daniels can do that, the Commanders will be much more competitive.
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