Commanders QB Jayden Daniels sends bold message to NFL rivals ahead of the 2025 season

Jayden Daniels had an undeniably breakout rookie campaign in the NFL, leading his Washington Commanders to become one of the season’s standout teams. Challenges often arise during the sophomore year for Offensive Rookies of the Year, but the former LSU star says he’s ready.

The numbers posted in their second year by recent OROY winners have often dipped significantly compared to their debut season — a trend Daniels is determined not to be a part of.

In a recent conversation with the media, one of the most impactful quarterbacks in recent times made it clear how he plans to navigate this next phase successfully, subtly warning his rivals that they’ll once again be facing a player at the peak of his technical powers.

“I’m sitting down and watching film and trying to eliminate some tendencies, as much as possible,” Jayden Daniels told Jori Epstein of Yahoo Sports. “Talking to the coaching staff on areas that they feel like I need to improve on and having conversations so we can all hit at full speed.”

Jayden Daniels #5 of the Washington Commanders looks to throw the ball during the third quarter against the Detroit Lions in the NFC Divisional Playoff at Ford Field on January 18, 2025 in Detroit, Michigan.

The connection between Jayden Daniels and Kliff Kingsbury

One of the key reasons behind Daniels’ impressive rookie campaign was the work of his offensive coordinator, Kliff Kingsbury — a figure for whom the quarterback had nothing but words of gratitude, praising the support and guidance he’s received since entering the NFL.

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“He wanted me to be as comfortable as possible,” Daniels said. “We had conversations like, ‘I didn’t like this’ or ‘I don’t like that.’ He might have argued a little bit, but ultimately he wouldn’t call a play that I wasn’t comfortable with.”

As preparations for a new season ramp up, Daniels and his entire team are hoping to at least replicate last year’s performance — and why not, even dream of reaching the long-awaited Super Bowl.

Jayden Daniels’ new weapons

The goal is clear: to repeat last year’s success and even improve upon it. To achieve this, Jayden Daniels will have several new faces on his roster, all aiming to help the QB showcase his full potential.

On one hand, during the last offseason, explosive wide receiver Deebo Samuel joined the offense to complement Terry McLaurin. After his last season with the 49ers, Samuel decided to seek a fresh start and will be a new key weapon for the QB.

Additionally, the Commanders upgraded their offensive line, including a trade for veteran stalwart Laremy Tunsil and selecting offensive tackle Josh Conerly Jr. in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft.