The Commanders and their top draft choice have completed the rookie-deal phase of their partnership. Jayden Daniels has agreed to the terms of his four-year introductory NFL contract, as reported by NFL.com’s Ian Rapoport.
Daniels will be signing a fully guaranteed $37.75MM deal, with a fifth-year option for the 2028 season. This marks the third first-round quarterback deal for Washington, following the selections of Robert Griffin III second overall in 2012 and Dwayne Haskins 15th overall in 2019.
Despite some Drake Maye rumors circulating leading up to the draft, Daniels was the widely expected choice. The Commanders turned down interest from the Raiders for the pick. It’s believed that only one offer was made for the selection, likely from Las Vegas with Antonio Pierce interested in reuniting with the former Arizona State recruit. The Commanders solidified their choice by drafting the LSU-developed Heisman winner, signaling that the Adam Peters-Dan Quinn regime will build around the dual-threat quarterback.
Washington didn’t have to give up any assets for Daniels, distinguishing this selection from the 2012 RG3 process. Last year’s eight-game losing streak secured them the No. 2 draft slot behind Chicago. As for Chicago, not many rumors about their preference emerged before the draft, with Caleb Williams being the clear favorite. While rumors about the Commanders slowed down, Daniels’ exceptional 2023 season propelled him to the forefront over Maye, who was long considered a top choice.
After transferring from Arizona State in 2022, Daniels, like other QBs in this year’s first round, thrived in his new environment. Along with Michael Penix Jr. and Bo Nix who became first-round picks after moving to the Pac-12, Daniels headed east to boost his stock. In his final season with the Tigers, Daniels put up impressive numbers, throwing 40 touchdown passes (with only four interceptions) and rushing for 1,134 yards and 10 more TDs, accumulating a total of 4,946 yards in 12 games.
Previously not considered a sure first-round pick, Daniels will now aim to provide Washington with a reliable QB solution, a void left since Kirk Cousins. The team traded Sam Howell to the Seahawks and signed former No. 2 overall pick Marcus Mariota in free agency. While Mariota showcased his capabilities as a starter in Atlanta, it’s expected that Daniels will see field time in Week 1.
There have been concerns about Daniels’ slender frame, with reports of him weighing in the 180s and 190s during his college years. However, he has bulked up to 210 pounds this offseason. Comparisons have been drawn to Bryce Young, who struggled in his rookie year after reaching 204 pounds for the Combine weigh-in. While the Panthers are not giving up on Young, Daniels offers a significant upside as a runner. His ability to protect himself throughout the season will be crucial.
Washington’s history with QBs has been turbulent, with injuries plaguing players like Griffin, failed re-signing of Cousins, and short-lived returns like that of Alex Smith. The team’s pursuit of Carson Wentz also didn’t pan out, leading to a shift in focus towards Howell last year. After years of uncertainty, Washington is placing its trust in Daniels under a new regime.
