The Washington Commanders are looking to put last season's disastrous campaign behind them at the earliest possible opportunity. They've made considerable improvements to the roster this offseason to turn the tide, but it could still legitimately go either way.
If everything clicks, the Commanders will be right in the thick of things. If everything falters, Washington will probably be looking for a new head coach in 2027.
That is how high the stakes are. But one NFL analyst believes that quarterback Jayden Daniels' return to full health could make the Commanders a dark-horse playoff challenger once again.
NFL analyst believes Commanders can enter Super Bowl conversation with Jayden Daniels
Joe Smith of USA Today Sports thought Daniels' staying injury-free would be the catalyst for a successful season for Washington. That's hardly breaking news, but the analyst thought the signal-caller could potentially propel the Commanders into the Super Bowl conversation if expectations are exceeded.
"As a rookie, Jayden Daniels led the Commanders to a 12-5 record (their best since 1991), with the team going on to break a 19-year playoff win drought and advancing to the NFC Championship Game. He was named Offensive Rookie of the Year for his efforts.
"Daniels struggled with multiple injuries last year, rarely playing completely healthy and never finding a rhythm – he would ultimately play in just seven outings. With Daniels back this year, expect a strong season from the Commanders."
Nothing much went right for Washington last season, but the former LSU star just couldn't stay healthy. Several troubling issues held the player and Washington back. Despite trying to fight his way back from a dislocated elbow, head coach Dan Quinn eventually took him out of the firing line.
Obviously, it'll take much more than Daniels. The defense needs to step up. The offensive line must protect him effectively. They need to pull together in the same manner that got them to the NFC Championship game. And they need to make sure complacency doesn't become the issue it clearly was last season.
Of course, the Commanders will only go as far as Daniels takes them in the end. It's why quarterbacks get all the hype, the biggest contracts, and the most plaudits around the media. It's also why the No. 2 pick in the 2024 NFL Draft completely galvanized a moribund franchise from the moment he stepped onto the field.
Last season didn't go nearly as well, but it's only made Daniels more motivated to silence his increasing doubters. And if that happens, the league will be firmly on notice.
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