Jayden Daniels gained significant plaudits for another exceptional performance against the Philadelphia Eagles. The quarterback drove his team forward in the face of adversity, spearheading a phenomenal comeback victory that bolstered the Washington Commanders' postseason hopes with two games remaining.
The Commanders have a superstar on their hands. Daniels cemented his NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award in 2024 with a five-touchdown performance. This also confirmed his status among the NFL's elite signal-callers, which is a remarkable accomplishment in Year 1 of his professional career.
Daniels is his own man. That doesn't stop people from comparing the No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft to another top-level performer who's taken the league by storm.
Of course, we're talking about Lamar Jackson.
Bryant McFadden lauded Jayden Daniels' impact on Commanders
Former pro turned CBS Sports analyst Bryant McFadden added his name to the growing list of those who see similarities. The former second-round pick and two-time Super Bowl winner proclaimed Daniels as the heir to Jackson's throne. He also believes the NFC East should be deeply concerned as the Heisman Trophy winner develops further.
"Jayden Daniels is the JV Lamar Jackson. Lamar is the varsity guy. Jayden Daniels is the guy, right now, watching Lamar on Fridays. You look at his style of play, how he's doing things, at such an early part in his career… As he continues to grow in the National Football League, he is Lamar Jackson but the JV version. And eventually, he will become that varsity version and you better look out NFC East."Bryant McFadden
"Jayden Daniels is the JV Lamar Jackson."@BMac_SportsTalk pic.twitter.com/xm26EnQF0D
— NFL on CBS 🏈 (@NFLonCBS) December 23, 2024
Comparing Daniels and Jackson is lazy to a certain extent. They are dual-threat weapons who want to be pocket passers first. Their escapability sets them apart, but it's unfair to Washington's franchise player as he carves out his path to superstardom.
It's a good subject to debate. Regardless of which side of the fence you're on, few would argue that the Commanders haven't hit the jackpot with Daniels. He's helped turn the organization into a borderline contender. There are several other influential factors in play, but having a legitimate difference-maker at the quarterback spot changes everything.
If Daniels goes on to gain Jackson's impressive accolades throughout his career, that'll be great. The player is more interested in the team attaining success and growing together. If that comes with distinctions, it's a bonus.
The sky's the limit for Daniels. He's got the tools and the correct mindset to make sure this incredible rookie year isn't just a flash in the pan. What's important for the Commanders is doing everything in their power to surround their prized possession with the weapons needed to thrive.
Adam Peters probably knows by now how important maximizing Daniels' rookie contract is. He was top of their draft board for a reason and has far exceeded some lofty expectations. The general manager has two or three more years before the quarterback wants a potentially record-breaking contract.
That's for the future. For now, Daniels is reveling in the moment and has the Commanders within touching distance of the knockout rounds. After so much misery and failed acquisitions at football's most important position, this newfound optimism is a refreshing change of pace.
And Daniels is just getting started.