Much of the talk around Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels this offseason centered on the potential for a sophomore slump after a rookie campaign for the ages. It didn't take long to put these fears firmly to rest.
Daniels was out to make an early statement against the New York Giants. A sold-out crowd at Northwest Stadium was expecting to see great things from the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. When offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury switched to a no-huddle offense on the second drive, they got it.
This plays to Daniels' strengths. He's a quick processor who does everything well. He's in complete control under center, and the added experience of Kingsbury's schematic concepts served him well.
Jayden Daniels marched downfield with ease to eliminate sophomore fears
Daniels marched Washington downfield. There were notable contributions from running back Austin Ekeler throughout, but the dynamic dual-threat signal-caller led the charge with his customary poise and precision.
His deep ball to Chris Moore, who was elevated from the practice squad, was a thing of beauty. Daniels recognized pressure quickly and escaped the pocket. He kept his eyes downfield and delivered a strike. The veteran wide receiver had some problems with drops in the preseason, but he made this chance count.
The Commanders got into the red zone, and Daniels looked for veteran tight end Zach Ertz. The laser he delivered was nothing short of exceptional, and the Pro Bowler duly obliged to open the scoring.
Nobody associated with the Commanders was expecting anything less from Daniels. Any doubts were coming from those on the outside looking in. And this was the first chance the LSU product had to prove beyond all doubt that he wasn't going away anytime soon.
September football can be sloppy, especially considering most established veterans don't get involved during the preseason. But this drive proved that Daniels doesn't plan to skip a beat.
And that puts the NFL firmly on notice.