In an unprecedented turn of events, rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has redefined expectations in the NFL, delivering a debut season that many are hailing as the greatest ever by a first-year quarterback. Selected second overall by the Washington Commanders in the 2024 NFL Draft, Daniels has not only met but exceeded the high expectations placed upon him.
From the outset, Daniels showcased remarkable poise and skill. In just his third game, he set an NFL rookie record with a 91.3% completion rate, connecting on 21 of 23 passes against the Cincinnati Bengals. This performance earned him the NFC Offensive Player of the Week award, making him only the third rookie quarterback in the past five seasons to receive this honor.
Throughout the season, Daniels demonstrated a unique blend of passing precision and rushing ability. He concluded the regular season with 3,568 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, and a 69% completion rate. Additionally, he amassed 891 rushing yards, setting a new benchmark for rookie quarterbacks. His knack for clutch performances was evident, with an NFL rookie-record 12 touchdown passes in the fourth quarter or overtime, five of which occurred in the final 30 seconds or overtime—the most by any player since 1970.
One of the most memorable moments of Daniels’ rookie campaign was the “Hail Maryland” play against the Chicago Bears on October 27, 2024. With time expiring, Daniels launched a 52-yard Hail Mary pass that was tipped by a defender before landing in the hands of wide receiver Noah Brown in the end zone, securing an 18-15 victory. This play was celebrated as one of the best of the 2024 NFL season and highlighted Daniels’ composure under pressure.
Daniels’ exceptional performance did not go unnoticed. He was selected to the 2025 Pro Bowl, becoming only the fourth rookie quarterback since 1970 to make an initial Pro Bowl roster. Under his leadership, the Commanders achieved their best regular-season record since 1991 and advanced to the NFC Championship Game. His rookie season has been widely regarded as among the greatest in NFL history.
As the Commanders prepare to face the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship, Daniels stands on the brink of making history. A victory would make him the first rookie quarterback to start and win a Super Bowl, cementing his status as a transformative figure in the league. Regardless of the outcome, Jayden Daniels’ rookie season has already left an indelible mark on the NFL, setting a new standard for future generations.