Commanders legend gives contentious take about QB Jayden Daniels

Jayden Daniels is the Washington Commanders' new prized possession. Those in power selected the promising quarterback at No. 2 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft. They expect big things from the signal-caller, who comes to the league with blossoming credentials and the potential to become a franchise-changing presence under center.

Daniels made a strong impression over early offseason workouts. His dynamic on-field production and tireless work ethic didn't go unnoticed by anyone associated with the organization. There is a long road and much hard work ahead for the Heisman Trophy winner, but he's off to a tremendous start nonetheless.

Things will get more intense at Washington's upcoming training camp. Daniels will be put through his paces when the pads go on. Joint practices are another important element of his early development before competitive action arrives in Week 1 at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

Commanders legend believes Jayden Daniels shouldn't play during the preseason

The Commanders might also provide Daniels with some game-day reps in the preseason to further hone his craft. However, franchise legend Joe Theismann stated this wouldn't be a wise move from the coaching staff based on comments via Fan Nation.

"He isn't and shouldn't play in the preseason. So if he isn't going to play in the preseason, how are we going to be able to understand how good he is when he, he's got people around his feet and it's a different world? Why would you put your starting quarterback out there? They would tear (head coach) Dan (Quinn) apart (if Jayden Daniels got hurt in preseason)."

- Joe Theismann via Fan Nation

This is a contentious issue.

Theismann has a point. Putting the former LSU star in harm's way during meaningless games comes with huge potential ramifications attached. The ex-quarterback also knows more about bad injuries than most, so his opinion holds weight as the Commanders look to embrace their past once again with Josh Harris' ownership group leading the charge.

At the same time, ensuring Daniels is ready to hit the ground running when the regular season commences is imperative if the Commanders want to drag themselves from obscurity. Keeping him on the field for an entire preseason game would be foolish, but new head coach Dan Quinn might decide on a series or two over the first two contests before sitting out their final warmup clash.

The Commanders have Marcus Mariota, Jeff Driskel, and Sam Hartman to fill the void if they decide not to risk Daniels over their preseason slate. However, that would be disappointing for fans who want to see the dual-threat weapon in action.

It's a risk versus reward situation. Much will also depend on how the staff views the Cajon High School product's development over Washington's training camp and whether he needs to experience the increased speed and finer margins at the next level.

There are pros and cons for both sides. Considering the vast changes across Washington's offense and the need to enhance chemistry, it would be eye-catching if Daniels didn't play a little over the Commanders' preseason engagements. But nobody should be complaining too much if those in power take a more cautious approach.

The most important thing above all else is Daniels' growth. That holds the key to Washington's chances of getting back on track next season with newfound positivity across the board.