Commanders QB Jayden Daniels Knocked From Top Spot in NFL Rookie Rankings
It’s been a rollercoaster of a season for Washington Commanders rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. After an electric start that had fans believing he was a shoo-in for Rookie of the Year honors, Daniels has recently slipped from the top spot in the NFL rookie rankings. The shift comes as part of a larger narrative of a challenging stretch for the Commanders and increased competition from other standout rookies.
A Promising Start
Drafted No. 2 overall out of LSU, Jayden Daniels entered the NFL with a lot of hype and he delivered early on. Known for his dual-threat abilities, Daniels quickly displayed his trademark poise and athleticism, racking up impressive yardage both through the air and on the ground. His early performances led to high expectations, with pundits praising his decision-making, quick release, and leadership on the field.
By midseason, Daniels had the Commanders sitting in a respectable position, and his early success saw him perched atop multiple rookie power rankings. At that point, the Rookie of the Year award seemed well within his grasp.
The Decline
Unfortunately, the NFL is a league of adjustments, and opponents began to adapt to Daniels’ style of play. The Commanders’ offensive line struggled with consistency, leaving Daniels under pressure more often than not. In recent weeks, turnovers and a dip in passing efficiency have hurt his production. The Commanders’ offensive woes have translated into losses, making it harder for Daniels to maintain his early momentum.
In Week 13, Daniels had one of his roughest outings of the season, throwing two interceptions in a blowout loss. While his flashes of brilliance are still evident, the rookie’s recent performances have knocked him down in the eyes of analysts.
The Competition Heats Up
Meanwhile, other rookies are thriving and making their case for the top spot. Players like quarterback Caleb Williams, wide receiver Malik Nabers, and running back Jahmyr Gibbs have all been performing at a high level. Williams, in particular, has shown a command of his offense and a knack for late-game heroics, which has pushed him ahead in the rankings.
Malik Nabers, Daniels’ former LSU teammate, has also surged up the ranks with a string of impressive performances, including multiple 100-yard receiving games. His chemistry with his quarterback and ability to break big plays have kept him in the spotlight.
What’s Next for Daniels?
Despite being knocked from the top spot, Daniels’ potential remains sky-high. His leadership qualities, athleticism, and ability to learn from mistakes give him an excellent foundation to build upon. The Commanders’ coaching staff, led by head coach Dan Quinn and offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, are committed to developing Daniels into a franchise quarterback.
The remainder of the season provides a perfect opportunity for Daniels to regroup, refine his game, and show why he was the No. 2 overall pick. With a few strong performances to close out the year, he can still make a compelling case for Rookie of the Year.
Final Thoughts
Jayden Daniels’ drop in the rookie rankings is a reality check but far from a final judgment. The NFL season is long and full of twists and turns, and Daniels has plenty of time to reclaim his place among the league’s brightest young stars. For Commanders fans, the hope is that these growing pains are just part of the journey toward sustained success.
Keep your eyes on Daniels—he’s just getting started.
