Analyst reveals one trait that could lead Commanders to Jayden Daniels

An NFL Draft analyst has revealed one trait that could eventually lead the Washington Commanders to quarterback Jayden Daniels at No. 2 overall.

After trading Sam Howell to the Seattle Seahawks, things have become clearer from the Washington Commanders' perspective. Many saw them taking a quarterback from No. 2 overall as a strong possibility before free agency began. Now, it's a foregone conclusion.

Assuming the Chicago Bears stand pat and select Caleb Williams from atop the draft as anticipated, the Commanders have a franchise-altering choice ahead of them when they go on the clock. Trading down is still the preference of some fans despite moving forward without Howell, but this appears to be a straight fight between Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye.

In truth, this is a 50-50 call. Maye looked like the early frontrunner, but a down year at North Carolina coupled with Daniels' exceptional rise to prominence en route to the Heisman Trophy mean things are far from certain. It's all speculation of course - there will only be a select few within the organization who know the genuine plan of attack. Leaks aren't nearly as prevalent under the new regime, so it could be a guessing game up until the big night.

Downfield accuracy could see Commanders pick Jayden Daniels

Ian Cummings from Pro Football Network acknowledged that signing Marcus Mariota in free agency didn't outline Daniels as the clear pick despite speculation to the contrary on social media. Instead, the analyst pointed to his accuracy downfield as something that could tip the scales in his favor when push comes to shove.

"Washington signing Marcus Mariota doesn’t tip its hand at QB as some have speculated. Jayden Daniels and Drake Maye can both fit the offense, but Kliff Kingsbury could feasibly prefer Daniels because of his downfield accuracy and running ability on spread looks."

- Ian Cummings, PFN

According to DraftKings Sportsbook, there is real momentum behind Daniels being the guy. He's currently -180 to be selected No. 2 overall (bet $180 to win $100), which is a major swing in the opening pre-draft odds. Maye is currently +145 (bet $100 to win $145).

Daniels has the electrifying traits that get fans into seats. He's an exciting prospect who's riding on the crest of a wave currently. His size is a slight worry and the signal-caller must also adapt his style to prevent unnecessary punishment, but there is a significant amount to work with.

The Commanders have done a nice job of filling holes in free agency. But from the moment Daniels or Maye are chosen, solidifying everything around them becomes the biggest priority moving forward.

Not just this offseason, but for the duration of their rookie deals.

If the pick is Daniels, nobody should complain too much. He's ascending, is only going to get better, and seems to relish the big occasion. He also looks more ready to start right away, which is another plus given how the modern-day ethos dictates high selections must be in the firing line right out of the gate.

Nobody else is worthy of consideration. It's Maye or Daniels. No matter what side of the fence fans are on, they can feel comfortable that a superb talent evaluator such as Adam Peters will have the final say.

Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride. After all, it might be a while before the Commanders are in this position again.