Commanders 7-round 2024 NFL mock draft: Defining moment edition
By Dean Jones
Commanders draft Jayden Daniels
- Quarterback | LSU Tigers
- Round No. 1 | No. 2 overall
It's a big week for the Washington Commanders, who'll host the three candidates projected to be in contention for the No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft. This is the last piece of valuable information those in power will receive before plans get finalized behind the scenes. Adam Peters must get this decision right above all else.
Momentum is everything at this time of year. The Commanders haven't shown their hand as yet and are unlikely to do so until the big night arrives. That said, there is growing speculation around the league that Jayden Daniels will be the guy when push comes to shove.
Several respected insiders and other analysts seem to be convinced this is the direction Washington will go down. Daniels looks like the perfect fit for Kliff Kingsbury's offensive scheme and boasts the game-changing capabilities that can take the league by storm with a smooth transition.
Daniels has gifts that cannot be taught. He's exceptional at working off-script or within structure. The Heisman Trophy winner boasts a wealth of college starting experience and is an elite downfield thrower for good measure. Something he put to full effect at LSU with two outstanding wide receivers - Malik Nabers and Brian Thomas Jr.
There are some concerns when looking at Daniels' playing style. His slender build makes durability a factor unless the Commanders work on ways to ensure their new prized possession minimizes the risk in this scenario. Improving his sliding technique and getting the signal-caller to understand that every rushing attempt doesn't have to be a home run would be a good place to start.
If the Commanders can figure that out, it's hard to envisage a scenario where Daniels doesn't become a superstar. He's got every other tool imaginable and this looks like a tremendous setup to walk into providing those in power find a potential long-term left tackle to go alongside their signal-caller.