Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels was terrific in his NFL debut. In the preseason opener against the New York Jets, Daniels played the opening drive, completed two of three passes for 45 yards, and rushed for a touchdown. His first completion to Dyami Brown is one of the preseason’s best throws thus far.
How would Daniels do in his second preseason game?
First, let’s talk about Washington’s joint practice with the Miami Dolphins last week. Daniels lit up Miami’s defense for several touchdowns, drawing praise from the Dolphins’ media, who saw him for the first time.
Then, in Saturday’s preseason game against Miami, Daniels played two series, completed 10 of 12 passes for 78 yards, and rushed for 13 yards on two attempts. He led the Commanders into scoring position on both drives, one ending with a field goal and the other a missed field goal. That meant Daniels was almost perfect during his time under center so far this preseason.
Daniels was a clear “stud” in the first two weeks of the preseason.
What grade did others give Daniels?
CBS Sports NFL draft writer Chris Trapasso graded the 2024 first-round picks based on their preseason Week 2 performance. Daniels and No. 1 pick Caleb Williams received an A-.
Plenty of underneath work from Daniels against the Dolphins, and I love that it highlighted the quickness of his release, particularly on the over-the-middle throw to tight end John Bates off play-action. Nothing spectacular in this outing, though.
Nothing spectacular by design. Why should the Commanders and Daniels show anything spectacular? Sure, his Week 1 throw was phenomenal, but the goal of this preseason was for Daniels to get reps and stay healthy. Mission accomplished.
Washington is thrilled with Daniels’ development thus far.