Jayden Daniels: The NFL Rookie of the Year Contender

By Jason Bolton September 10, 2024 08:10

Photo by Kevin Sabitus/Getty Images

Few narratives in the NFL are as compelling or ever-changing as that of a burgeoning rookie quarterback. Through the 2024 NFL season, one name keeps popping up around Rookie of the Year talks, and that's none other than former LSU star, Jayden Daniels. In this feature, we'll examine Daniels and his journey, how he's changed the Commanders with him aboard, and much more.

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The Path to the NFL

Heisman Trophy and College Career

Jayden Daniels had to go through turmoil in the NFL, but his ability and constant growth are remarkable. Daniels played his collegiate football at Louisiana State University (LSU) before joining the Commanders after capturing a Heisman Trophy from LSU to wrap up an illustrious college career. This feat not only helped secure his standing as one of the most elite college football players but also set up what was supposed to be a grand entrance on an NFL stage.

The 2024 NFL Draft

Seen as a potential franchise-altering talent, the Washington Commanders selected him as their second overall pick in 2024. The decision partially reflected the team's belief that Daniels could lead their offense and serve as something transformative for the franchise.

Rookie Season Performance

Statistical Overview

Daniels has put together enough of a solid season to earn his way into the top of the list of candidates for Offensive Rookie of the Year. The LSU product has made strides as an NFL talent, showing he can both throw and run the ball efficiently.

Impact on the Commanders

Daniels has been able to employ his talents well within the guidance of offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, a known quarterback-guru with innovative schemes. Also, Daniels has some veteran receivers like Terry McLaurin to throw the ball to, which has helped along his way in learning this far.

The Rookie of the Year Race

Current Standing

As the time of writing, Daniels is just ahead of Arizona Cardinals wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. at DraftKings Virginia, with the second-best odds to win and a line set at +475. His closest competition is Chicago Bears QB Caleb Williams.

Other Contenders

Caleb Williams (Chicago Bears) +145 to +165
Jayden Daniels (Washington Commanders) +300 to +500
Marvin Harrison Jr. (Arizona Cardinals) +750 to +800
Xavier Worthy (Kansas City Chiefs) +850 to +1200
Malik Nabers (New York Giants) +1200 to +1500

Potential Hurdles

Naturally, Daniels should be dealing with the rookie growing pains of quickly adjusting to NFL game speed and complexity. Reading NFL defenses, the shorter play clock, and endurance over a longer season are common challenges for rookie quarterbacks.

Looking Ahead

Throughout the 2024 NFL season, Jayden Daniels will be evaluated with his draft class to determine how well or poorly he fares. The Offensive Rookie of the Year award winner is selected during an NFL annual awards show, which will be taking place on February 9, 2025 weekend, just before the Super Bowl.

One of the more interesting storylines from what will be an action-packed 2024 NFL season has to be Jayden Daniels' leap from a Heisman Trophy winner to a Rookie of the Year contender. He is high on the odds list and is up there in terms of performance, and hype, making him a hot pick for this award. The competition is stiff, especially with other QBs like superstar Caleb Williams, but Daniels has the skill and ability to have a great chance at securing this award.