In the 2024 NFL draft lead-up, LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels was praised for his accuracy and ball placement, among other things.
The Washington Commanders selected Daniels with the second overall pick and officially named him the starting quarterback on Monday.
Through two preseason games, Daniels has completed 12 of 15 passes for 123 yards and rushed for a touchdown. He’s played three drives, leading the Commanders to a touchdown and a field goal, and his other drive ended with a missed field goal.
Daniels has been phenomenal. He’s shown a veteran-like command of the offense, and his 42-yard completion to Dyami Brown in the preseason opener was one of the NFL’s top highlights last week.
Daniels continued his excellent start in last week’s joint practice with the Dolphins, reportedly throwing touchdowns on five consecutive possessions at one point.
He followed that performance by going 10 of 12 in Saturday’s preseason game in Miami. Daniels didn’t do anything spectacular but operated the offense with precision.
Brian Baldinger took notice, naming his three favorite plays from Daniels from Week 2 of the preseason. ESPN analyst and former NFL quarterback Dan Orlovsly was also complimentary of Daniels.
Orlovsly praised Daniels’ ball placement over the past two weeks, saying it matches up with what he showed in college.
Daniels in college shows up in NFL@Commanders pic.twitter.com/w3y7oRs0YU
— Dan Orlovsky (@danorlovsky7) August 18, 2024
Orlovsky highlighted three throws where ball placement was critical — Daniels was perfect on all three throws. Washington hasn’t even opened the full playbook yet, with offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury focusing on Daniels getting rid of the ball quickly.
The Commanders couldn’t have asked for a better start from their young franchise quarterback.
