Rookie Quarterback Jayden Daniels Shines in Commanders' Victory Over Bengals
The Washington Commanders treated their fans to a thrilling 38-33 victory over the Cincinnati Bengals on their home turf, and rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels was the maestro orchestrating this latest triumph. Daniels' performance not only secured the win but also etched his name into the NFL record books.
The Commanders’ rookie sensation completed an impressive 91% of his passes, amassing 254 yards and throwing for two touchdowns. Jayden Daniels also demonstrated his versatility, rushing for 39 yards and adding another score on 12 carries, a performance that belies the fact that this was just his third career start.
Setting Records and Making History
In the Commanders’ storied history, no quarterback has ever matched Daniels' accuracy. Completing 91% of his passes in an NFL game is no small feat, but to do it as a rookie makes the accomplishment even more remarkable. His exceptional performance didn't just set a franchise record for completion percentage, but also set the highest completion rate ever recorded by a rookie quarterback in NFL history.
Commanders head coach Antonio Pierce has long been known for his defensive prowess, yet his unique bond with Daniels has arguably become the backbone of the team’s recent success. Their history traces back to their time together at Arizona State, where Pierce served as a defensive assistant coach. This relationship has clearly paid dividends, helping guide the Commanders’ new face of the franchise to early and unexpected success.
Sustained Offensive Dominance
While Daniel’s individual achievements are phenomenal, the Commanders’ overall offensive performance has also been nothing short of spectacular. In their last two games, the Commanders have managed to score on every drive, except for situational kneel-downs. Remarkably, Daniels has led scoring drives on every possession he’s overseen, excluding kneel-downs, in two of his three career starts.
This level of offensive efficiency has lifted the Commanders into a new stratosphere. They are no longer viewed as an underdog team, but rather as a burgeoning NFL powerhouse.
The One That Got Away
Interestingly, the Las Vegas Raiders had their eyes set on Daniels during the 2024 NFL Draft but were thwarted in their attempts to bring him on board. Six quarterbacks were taken off the board before the Raiders had their chance, and their attempt to trade up to the No. 2 overall pick fell short.
Las Vegas, ultimately unable to draft a quarterback that year, turned to veteran Gardner Minshew to compete with Aidan O'Connell. “He’s a special player. We were hoping that maybe all the teams didn’t think so and he could slip down to the Raiders a little while ago,” admitted Raiders star wide receiver Davante Adams. The Raiders did not draft any quarterback that year, a decision that looks all the more glaring considering their recent 36-22 loss to the Carolina Panthers with O'Connell at the helm.
The Future Looks Bright
Jayden Daniels’ early success and record-setting performances have transformed the Washington Commanders from a team often dismissed to one that now commands respect. With each passing week, the rookie quarterback’s confidence appears to grow, solidifying his role as the centerpiece of the franchise.
The Commanders are no longer the NFL's underestimated team. With Jayden Daniels leading the way, Antonio Pierce’s squad appears poised to rewrite their narrative and establish themselves as a perennial contender.