NFL writer lauds Commanders QB Jayden Daniels' smooth transition

One doesn't have to look far for praise where Jayden Daniels is concerned. The quarterback's exceptional work ethic and poise made a significant impression over early offseason workouts. This is just the first step, but it went much better than even the brightest optimist envisaged.

The Washington Commanders are expecting big things from Daniels. That's not unusual for a quarterback prospect taken No. 2 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, but it's something the former LSU star is using as extra motivation with the hopes of an entire franchise on his shoulders.

Commanders QB Jayden Daniels praised for outstanding early impression

Daniels won the respect of veteran teammates quickly according to John Keim of ESPN. The respected beat writer also highlighted the swagger surrounding the signal-caller that head coach Dan Quinn believes can help him cope with the stern challenges that lie ahead in 2024.

"[Jayden] Daniels never looked overmatched or confused during spring practices, which is a key reason the Commanders had him working exclusively with the first group in the mandatory minicamp. Daniels impressed teammates and coaches with how prepared he was, a byproduct in part of showing up every day at 5:45 a.m. for film work and his own walk-through session. But he looked sharp throwing the ball with anticipation and in how he has gone through his progressions. So far, he is exactly the player they thought they had drafted. "He's got a swagger to him," coach Dan Quinn said. "He really has a very firm handle on the things that we're doing, but he also has the humility of a young player … knowing that he has a lot to prove.""

- John Keim, ESPN

Daniels is taking nothing for granted. He's relying on the methods that got him this far. The Heisman Trophy winner is taking on coaching and striving to learn schematic concepts. This will keep complications to a minimum as the Commanders look to become one of the league's surprise packages next season.

The Commanders feel like they have a player with immense promise on their hands. Daniels carries himself like a franchise-caliber presence under center. He'll need help from his supporting cast, but this looks like an environment where he can thrive.

Perhaps not immediately looking at the history of first-year quarterbacks. But over time.

Nobody is expecting Daniels to enjoy a smooth ride in 2024. There will be times of difficulty. Most rookies go through a rollercoaster as they get used to the quicker pace and finer margins of the NFL. The player's strong character and willingness to go the extra mile should serve him well through good times and bad.

Quinn and the coaching staff won't exactly be critical of Daniels at this stage. Still, the fact every media member watching practice is harboring the same belief is a testament to how well he's integrated into the Commanders' improved football operation on and off the field.

Proving it in a competitive setting represents the biggest challenge of all. If Daniels accomplishes this feat sooner rather than later, the Commanders have a bona fide superstar on their hands.

Not since the days of Robert Griffin III have Washington fans been able to boast that.