The NFL writer lauds Commander QB Jayden Daniels’ smooth transition.

One doesn’t have to go far for compliments where Jayden Daniels is concerned. The quarterback’s remarkable work ethic and poise made a major impression over early spring practices. This is just the first stage, but it went much better than even the brightest optimist expected.

The Washington Commanders are expecting big things from Daniels. That’s not unusual for a quarterback prospect taken No. 2 overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, but it’s something the former LSU star is utilizing as added incentive with the hopes of an entire team on his shoulders. Commanders QB Jayden Daniels commended for good early impression

Daniels garnered the respect of veteran teammates fast according to John Keim of ESPN. The acclaimed beat writer also underlined the bravado surrounding the signal-caller that head coach Dan Quinn believes can help him cope with the stern trials that lay ahead in 2024.

“[Jayden] Daniels never seemed overmatched or bewildered during spring practices, which is a primary reason the Commanders had him working completely with the first group in the mandated minicamp. Daniels wowed teammates and coaches with how prepared he was, a benefit in part of turning up every day at 5:45 a.m. for film work and his own walk-through session.

But he looked sharp throwing the ball with anticipation and in how he has gone through his progressions. So far, he is exactly the player they imagined they had drafted. “He’s got a swagger to him,” coach Dan Quinn said. “He actually has a very good hold on the things that we’re doing, but he also has the humility of a young kid … understanding that he has a lot to prove.””

Daniels is taking nothing for granted. He’s depending on the procedures that brought him this far. The Heisman Trophy winner is taking on coaching and seeking to grasp schematic ideas. This will keep issues to a minimal as the Commanders try to become one of the league’s surprise packages next season.

The Commanders feel like they have a player with enormous promise on their hands. Daniels handles himself like a franchise-caliber presence behind center. He’ll need aid from his supporting cast, but this looks like a setting where he can thrive. Perhaps not immediately looking at the history of first-year quarterbacks. But over time.

Nobody is expecting Daniels to enjoy a smooth ride in 2024. There will be times of difficulties. Most rookies go on a rollercoaster as they become adjusted to the quicker tempo and tighter margins of the NFL. The player’s excellent character and willingness to go the additional mile should serve him well during good times and bad.

Quinn and the coaching staff won’t exactly be critical of Daniels at this stage. Still, the fact every media member observing practice is harboring the same opinion is a measure to how successfully he’s fit into the Commanders’ better football operation on and off the field.

Proving it in a competitive situation constitutes the toughest challenge of all. If Daniels accomplishes this accomplishment sooner rather than later, the Commanders have a bona fide superstar on their hands. Not since the days of Robert Griffin III have Washington fans been able to brag that.