Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels was phenomenal in his preseason debut for the Washington Commanders. While Daniels only played one series, he completed two of his three attempts for 45 yards, including a 42-yard completion to wide receiver Dyami Brown.
The most exciting part of the completion to Brown was that Daniels changed the play. Daniels didn’t like what he saw and switched from a safe screen on third down to a downfield shot to Brown.
He later scored to put a perfect end to his first NFL appearance.
What would he do for an encore?
If his performance in Thursday’s joint practice was any indication, Daniels would follow up his first preseason performance with another strong showing against the Dolphins.
In two series, Daniels completed 10 of 12 passes for 78 yards and rushed for 13 yards on two attempts. It was another outstanding effort from the rookie. We shared every Daniels throw and run from Saturday’s game.
Brian Baldinger, one of the best NFL analysts, was also impressed. In the latest installment of “Baldy’s Breakdowns” on X, Baldinger named Daniels’ three most impressive plays from Saturday’s game — in his opinion.
.@Commanders @JayD__5 the 3 best plays in a QTR of action. He looked decisive in where he wanted to go and the offensive added some effective runs. #BaldysBreakdowns pic.twitter.com/tnd5a89Tm2
— Brian Baldinger (@BaldyNFL) August 18, 2024
The first play was his completion to wide receiver Terry McLaurin. Baldinger loved the ball placement. The second play was his ball fake to running back Austin Ekeler before throwing a quick dart over the middle to tight end John Bates for an easy 16-yard gain.
Remember when they said he couldn’t throw across the middle?
The final play was the run where Daniels didn’t slide, earning some “double secret probation” from head coach Dan Quinn.
There’s a lot to like in those three plays. Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury is excellently protecting his offensive line and his quarterback, and Daniels executes to perfection.
The Commanders host the Patriots in the preseason finale next week, but it’s unclear if Daniels will even play.