Jayden Daniels has heard all the criticism that came after his disappointing 2025 campaign. The Washington Commanders have no concerns whatsoever about their quarterback, doing everything possible to build around him this offseason to ensure last season's blip becomes just a small bump in the road.
The Commanders added more weapons around Daniels. They have a decent-looking offensive line and a strong rushing attack. Terry McLaurin is back to full health, and the new scheme implemented by offensive coordinator David Blough should be much better suited to his skill set.
More help might be on the way, but the onus is on Daniels to lead the charge. If he can, and he manages to stay healthy, the former LSU star could be a very wealthy man this time next year.
It's no secret that Daniels will be extension-eligible after the 2026 season. That will be the last thing on his mind right now, but it does represent a potential reward for bouncing back emphatically.
Washington knows this is its franchise player — the one man above all else who holds the team's fortunes in the palm of his hand. Daniels showed the NFL what he was all about in Year 1 of his professional career, dragging the Commanders all the way to the NFC Championship game. They capitulated without him for anything more than the four fully completed games last time around, which only magnified his importance further.
There is just no telling what the money would look like on Daniels' new contract.
Quarterback deals are soaring, with Patrick Mahomes becoming the first player with a $500 million commitment last week. Anything from $50 million to $80 million per year is feasible for Daniels. If the No. 2 pick in 2024 stays healthy and performs to the level required, it'll be at the top end of this estimation.
Or maybe even beyond.
Daniels is a football-first guy. He'll know that if strong performances and team success are achieved, the rest will take care of itself. He's got enough motivation without the financial aspect, and the Heisman Trophy winner is already showing the resolve to set a different tone.
Much more is required, but the signs are still pointing to long-term prosperity.
The changes to the offensive scheme could be more beneficial than anything else. Daniels will be under center more. There will be increased reliance on play-action. The quarterback still has the freedom to be creative, but within pro-style concepts designed to take some of the pressure off his shoulders.
It seems like a recipe for success. If everything goes according to plan or even better than expected, Daniels will be expecting a lot more zeroes on his paycheck.
And the Commanders would be wise to pay up.
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