The Washington Commanders, still basking in the optimism of securing a promising talent with the 2nd overall pick, now face an unexpected twist: their rookie quarterback, Jayden Daniels, may be banned from the NFL due to a significant gambling violation. The team’s prized selection from the 2024 Draft, who boasted a stellar record at LSU, admitted to breaking the league’s strict gambling policy in a bet with a fellow rookie.
Jayden Daniels’ Path to the NFL
Jayden Daniels was a highly coveted quarterback prospect leading up to the 2024 NFL Draft. The Washington Commanders snapped him up, confident he could be the solution to their offensive woes. During his time at LSU, he shattered several of Joe Burrow’s records, solidifying his reputation as one of college football’s brightest stars.
Jayden Daniels deep ball looks so effortless #RaiseHail
— Wam ✞ (@AllProWam) May 10, 2024
However, in a surprising turn of events, Daniels confessed to a betting agreement that breaches NFL rules. This wager puts his entire rookie season—and potentially his career—at risk.
$10,000 Bet With Malik Nabers
Daniels’ admission came during a candid conversation on the “All Facts, No Brakes” podcast, where he disclosed details of a $10,000 wager with New York Giants rookie wide receiver Malik Nabers. The bet centers around which player will clinch the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award. Daniels expressed some frustration over Nabers publicly revealing their agreement, saying, “Man, he wasn’t supposed to tell nobody.”
Despite his discomfort, Daniels didn’t shy away from confirming the wager, adding, “We got a little something going on. I mean, he put it out there, so it’s like I can’t say he cap.”
Keyshawn Johnson, host of the podcast, asked for further clarification, to which Daniels admitted, “The bet is real.” The quarterback seemed visibly uneasy with the direct questioning, clearly recognizing the consequences of his actions.
The High Stakes of a Rookie Bet
Malik Nabers, who was picked 6th overall by the New York Giants, acknowledged the wager in his comments to the New York Daily News: “We got a bet going for Rookie of the Year. Whoever loses gotta pay, I think it’s $10,000 cash.”
The former LSU teammates are expected to face off in at least two games this season, but their playful bet could now lead to severe repercussions. The NFL’s policy prohibits any form of gambling tied to the league, including private wagers between players. This violation could result in a ban for both rookies, a crushing blow to their careers before they’ve fully begun.
Impact on the Washington Commanders
With Jayden Daniels facing potential exclusion from the NFL, the Washington Commanders must now weigh their options and prepare for a future that may not include their star quarterback. Similarly, the Giants will have to brace for the possibility of losing Nabers, who has been touted as a significant contributor to their offensive lineup.
The league’s strict stance on gambling exists to protect the integrity of the game, and this high-profile violation serves as a sobering reminder. As the Commanders and Giants grapple with the fallout, Daniels and Nabers are left to reckon with the costly implications of their actions, possibly finding themselves banned before even setting foot on the field as pros.
