ESPN names Jayden Daniels a 2023 Heisman contender

There are high expectations for Daniels, should he return to school.

LSU quarterback [autotag]Jayden Daniels[/autotag] has yet to announce his 2023 plans. The transfer from Arizona State could come back to Baton Rouge for another year or head off to the NFL.

If Daniels does come back, there will be high expectations. ESPN released its list of early Heisman contenders, and Daniels made the cut.

“In his first year at a new school, battling a few injuries and learning a completely new system, all the Arizona State transfer did was throw for 2,774 yards and 16 touchdowns, rush for 818 and 11 more scores and lead LSU to an upset of Alabama and an SEC West title,” ESPN’s Bill Connelly wrote.

Daniels has his critics, but the reasoning there holds up.

Playing quarterback at any big program provides a natural spotlight and the tough SEC schedule only increases those spotlight moments. Daniels’ dual-threat ability allows him to be a highlight-maker as well.

LSU should return its most talented pass catchers [autotag]Kayshon Boutte[/autotag] and [autotag]Malik Nabers[/autotag]. Tight end [autotag]Mason Taylor[/autotag] looked to be turning into one of Daniels’ favorite targets and he will take a step forward along with other talents like [autotag]Brian Thomas Jr.[/autotag]

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