4 winners (and 3 losers) from first quarter of Commanders 2024 season

Loser No. 3

Dyami Brown - Commanders WR

The Washington Commanders are spreading the football around impressively on offense. We've already spoken about Kliff Kingsbury's flawless opening to the campaign as the team's new offensive coordinator. Getting as many of his playmakers involved as possible has played a leading role in this incredible opening to the campaign.

This is no more evident than in the wide receiver room. Terry McLaurin remains the top dog and has come to life over the last fortnight. Players such as Luke McCaffrey, Noah Brown, and even Olamide Zaccheaus have come to the fore in different moments to further raise optimism. Dyami Brown seems like the odd man out once again despite his impressive offseason under the new regime.

Brown's accumulated just seven targets in four games, five of which he's brought in for 37 receiving yards. That's as many as McCaffrey, only the rookie third-round has brought in all seven for 79 receiving yards and has one of the league's best separation rates according to Pro Football Focus. It's also way below others in the room, which could be an ominous sign for the North Carolina product.

There will be times when Brown is counted upon if Kingsbury continues to share the wealth. However, the wideout is further down the pecking order than ever looking at his target share right now.

Winner No. 4

Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB

The Commanders thought they had something special on their hands with Jayden Daniels. Those in power were suitably impressed by his demeanor and fierce inner drive during their pre-draft assessments. The No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft repaid this faith immediately, winning over teammates throughout the offseason and leading by a quiet example that veterans naturally gravitated towards.

There was cautious optimism heading into Daniels' rookie season. Most thought he would be an upgrade while tempering their expectations initially. Nobody anticipated the Heisman Trophy winner to make such an exceptional start to his NFL journey.

Daniels has been an absolute revelation through the opening quarter of the campaign. His numbers are bordering on historic and the dual-threat force is providing a level of excitement that's been sorely missing in Washington. He's captured the national media's attention quickly and fans are dreaming of great things with such a gifted presence under center leading the charge.

Keeping up this remarkable start is going to be difficult. Daniels is still a rookie and by his admission is still learning. But if he can get better with more experience under Washington's accomplished coaching staff, he's got all the makings of a genuine superstar.

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