In a decision that captivated football fans nationwide, the Washington Commanders made a strategic play by selecting LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels with the No. 2 overall pick in the NFL Draft. This choice marked a significant moment for the team, particularly given the intense speculation and debate that surrounded their selection process.
Inside the Washington Commanders’ Draft Strategy
The pre-draft period was rife with predictions and analyses from various experts. Some anticipated that Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy would be the top choice for Washington, given his impressive performance metrics.
Others speculated about the possibility of North Carolina’s Drake Maye being selected by first-year GM Adam Peters, or even suggested that Peters might trade down to capitalize on other opportunities. However, Peters, who previously worked with the 49ers, a team not seeking a first-round quarterback in 2023, had other plans upon reviewing Daniels’ capabilities.
ESPN.com’s John Keim provided insights into the Commanders’ decision-making process, revealing how Daniels’ film review left a significant impression on Peters.
“The way he can process, the way he can see the field, the way he goes through his reads, the way he delivers [the ball] on time,” Peters explained. “He’s the best deep-ball thrower in the draft, and that’s even before we start watching him run, and the way he runs he just takes your soul as a defense. You think you got him and then all of a sudden, he rips off a 40-yard run. And this is against the SEC, the best of the best.”
Adam Peters Sold on Jayden Daniels’ Potential
Adam Peters was so convinced of Jayden Daniels’ fit for the Commanders that during a pre-draft meeting which included team owner Josh Harris and head coach Dan Quinn among others, he asserted that it would take something significant to steer away from picking Jayden Daniels.
As the draft approached, this conviction only grew stronger, bolstered by Daniels’ demonstrated work ethic and leadership qualities. Keim highlighted an instance where Daniels changed the passcode at an LSU facility to log extra practice hours and organized early morning workouts with his receivers, signaling his dedication and determination.
New #Commanders GM Adam Peters was "smitten" with QB Jayden Daniels as soon as he put on Daniels' game tape. More on the process that led up to the Daniels pick, plus a note on the only trade offer that came in for Washington's No. 2 selection: https://t.co/1hHE3bTaot
— Pro Football Rumors (@pfrumors) May 5, 2024
Furthermore, Peters received positive feedback on Daniels from respected figures in San Francisco, including Niners head coach Kyle Shanahan and wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk, enhancing his confidence in the decision. Despite receiving a trade offer for the No. 2 pick, Peters stood firm, convinced that Daniels was the right choice for the Commanders.
What Lies Ahead for Jayden Daniels
While it’s not yet confirmed that Jayden Daniels will start as quarterback from week one of the 2024 season, the potential for him to lead the team is evident. The Washington Commanders also have Marcus Mariota, a seasoned quarterback, who could serve as a transitional leader while Daniels fully adapts to the NFL’s rigorous demands.
The choice of Jayden Daniels not only signifies a new era for the Commanders but also underscores a broader strategy of building around a quarterback with a profound ability to impact the game both through the air and on the ground. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on Daniels to see if he can translate his collegiate success into NFL triumphs, potentially marking the beginning of a promising career in Washington.
