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Jayden Daniels Named Starting Quarterback for Washington Commanders

Daniels enters the NFL with buzz after a standout season at LSU, scoring 50 touchdowns and winning the Heisman Trophy. His dual-threat skills and composure have Washington fans and analysts viewing him as a franchise cornerstone.

Matt Washington

Aug 19, 2024 — 1 min read

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels gears up for his NFL debut as the team's new starter, poised to lead the offense in the 2024 season. (AP Photo/Nick Wass)

NEW ORLEANS — In a highly anticipated move, the Washington Commanders officially named Jayden Daniels their starting quarterback for the upcoming NFL season. Daniels will take the helm when the Commanders face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 1, cementing the beginning of a new era for Washington's offense.

The decision, announced Monday, comes after an intense offseason battle between Daniels and veteran Marcus Mariota. As the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, Daniels impressed the Commanders' coaching staff with his dynamic playmaking ability and leadership on the field. His performance in the preseason further solidified his role, as he completed 12 of 15 passes for 123 yards and added a rushing touchdown in a game against the New York Jets.

Daniels enters the NFL with considerable buzz following a stellar season at LSU, where he racked up 50 total touchdowns and captured the prestigious Heisman Trophy. His dual-threat capabilities and poise under pressure have sparked excitement among Washington fans and analysts alike, as they see him as a franchise cornerstone.

“Jayden has shown exceptional growth and maturity throughout training camp,” said head coach Ron Rivera. “He’s earned this opportunity, and we believe he’s ready to lead this team.”

As the Commanders prepare for their season opener, they’ll do so as 4-point underdogs on the road against the Buccaneers, according to Caesars Sportsbook. Despite the odds, expectations are high for Daniels, who has been praised for his ability to elevate those around him with his athleticism and vision on the field.

Washington fans hope this latest decision will ignite a resurgence for the franchise as Daniels looks to make his mark as one of the league’s most promising young quarterbacks.

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