Washington fans know that Jayden Daniels is the face of the franchise. Since being drafted second overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, Daniels has transformed the team, leading them to a 12-5 record and an NFC Championship Game appearance in his rookie season.
Most importantly, he is now back in Ashburn for the new season, and his offseason transformation has fueled excitement among fans. Many believe they are headed to the Super Bowl with the best young quarterback in the league.
However, this article won’t focus on what he can do in the upcoming season. Instead, we’ll take a look back at his journey—from an LSU standout to becoming PFF’s best quarterback under 25.
Early Career and Breakout Moments That Defined Jayden Daniels
Jayden Daniels had a remarkable college career, particularly during his time at LSU, where he became a Heisman Trophy winner and a standout performer. His breakout moments included setting LSU’s single-season records for rushing yards and touchdowns as a quarterback. He also became the first FBS player to record 350 passing yards and 200 rushing yards in a single game.
However, his rise to stardom began in San Bernardino, California. He was a four-star recruit coming out of Cajon High School and ranked as one of the top dual-threat quarterbacks in his class, according to 247Sports and On3. The 24-year-old started his college career at Arizona State before transferring to LSU.
An interesting fact is that given his four-star status many top programs—including Alabama, Ohio State and Georgia fought hard to secure his commitment. However, Arizona State emerged as the winner. That surprised many, but Daniels made an immediate impact as a true freshman in 2019. He threw for 2,943 yards and 17 touchdowns and led the Sun Devils to a Sun Bowl victory.
After three seasons at Arizona State, Daniels transferred to LSU in 2022, where he elevated his game to new heights. His 2023 season with Louisiana State was historic. By throwing for 3,812 yards and 40 touchdowns while rushing for 1,134 yards and 10 scores, he earned college football’s most prestigious honor—the Heisman Trophy.
After that, there was no doubt he was headed to the NFL. The Washington Commanders selected him with the No. 2 overall pick. And now, everyone is witnessing his next chapter.
Transitioning to the NFL: What Makes Daniels a Top Prospect
It’s been just one year since Jayden Daniels stepped onto the field as a rookie under head coach Dan Quinn. Even as a newcomer, Quinn trusted him as the team’s starting quarterback. The former LSU standout didn’t disappoint—he led the Commanders to a strong 12-5 record and helped them reach the NFC Championship Game.
Along the way, he made history by becoming the first rookie quarterback to throw for over 3,500 yards and rush for more than 800 yards in a single season. Daniels was already considered the best quarterback in the Commanders’ camp last year. Now, he has proven that he is one of the top young quarterbacks in the entire league. Pro Football Focus even ranked him among the top 25 players under 25 years old.
Now, the 24-year-old has already prepared himself for the upcoming season. To support him, the Commanders have strengthened their roster by adding key players like Deebo Samuel and Laremy Tunsil. All of this is only boosting fans’ hopes for the team to reach Super Bowl 60.
