5 decisions the Commanders might regret after 2024 NFL Draft

Commanders chose Jayden Daniels at No. 2

I agree with this decision, but history is not on Adam Peters’ side here.

In 1983, the only other time six quarterbacks were chosen in the first round, the second signal-caller picked - Todd Blackledge - had the worst career of them all. Three of those quarterbacks made the Pro Football Hall of Fame, including two selected after the No. 2 overall selection.

Two others were at least serviceable starters in the league. Blackledge was a spot starter who completed fewer than 50 percent of his passes and had a negative touchdown-to-interception ratio. There is no sure thing when it comes to selecting college prospects, but Peters and others within the Washington Commanders seem confident that Jayden Daniels can buck the trend and become the game-changing presence under center that many anticipate.

History tends to overlook franchises and situations when evaluating picks. Had Dan Marino not gone to the Miami Dolphins at the end of the first round - with an elite coach and a couple of dynamic receivers - would he still have become the exceptional gunslinger we all remember? Probably. But we’ll never know for sure.

Daniels may be benefited or sabotaged by a good plan, but that won’t matter. If Michael Penix Jr. has more success, or if Drake Maye becomes the next Josh Allen while the Heisman Trophy winner out of LSU settles at the Baker Mayfield level, then the pick may go down as another blown opportunity to secure a franchise quarterback.

That is a worst-case scenario. Daniels has proven production, dynamic dual-threat capabilities, and an overall aura capable of turning the Commanders around. He cannot do it alone, but Peters did a nice job of providing the signal-caller with the right environment. However, the offensive line must live up to their end of the bargain.