Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels has captured attention with a stunning rookie season, but former <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL MVP Cam Newton warns that Daniels could follow a path similar to Robert Griffin III’s — one filled with potential but haunted by franchise turmoil. As Daniels prepares for his sophomore year, the question looms: will he overcome the infamous Commanders’ quarterback struggles or fall victim to history repeating itself?
Jayden Daniels’ Remarkable Rookie Campaign Sets High Expectations
Chosen as the No. 2 overall pick, Jayden Daniels quickly became the face of a struggling Washington Commanders franchise. His rookie year was nothing short of electrifying, carrying a team that was previously mired in failure to an unexpected playoff berth. Daniels rushed for 891 yards—the highest ever recorded by a rookie quarterback—and threw for 3,568 yards along with 25 touchdowns. His dynamic playmaking earned him the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year award and a Pro Bowl selection, signaling a significant franchise revival.
On the field, Daniels demonstrated elite athleticism reminiscent of his college days at LSU, routinely baffling linebackers with his agility. His 65-yard Hail Mary touchdown against the Chicago Bears, clinching an 18-15 victory on October 27, 2024, is one highlight among many showing his clutch performance under pressure. These accomplishments fueled hope in a Washington fanbase desperate for a new era of success.
The Shadow of RG3: A Cautionary Comparison from Cam Newton
Despite Daniels’ promising start, Cam Newton draws a striking parallel to Robert Griffin III’s meteoric but ultimately faltering rise. During an interview on Funky Friday with host Wale, Newton reflected on his own experience and the challenges faced by young quarterbacks thrust into the spotlight. Newton explained,
“There was nobody who had the game in a chokehold like Robert Griffin III his rookie season…His rookie season really made people kind it was almost like…Jayden Daniels.” —Cam Newton, Former NFL MVP
Newton’s observation comes from more than casual comparison—it reflects deep concern born from firsthand knowledge of how quickly a rookie sensation can fade due to mismanagement and systemic instability. Balancing the excitement around Daniels’ talent is the fear of the all-too-familiar sophomore slump, worsened by franchise dysfunction that derailed the careers of many promising quarterbacks before him.
The interview discussed Daniels’ potential trajectory, with Newton asking,
“I see that same thing happening for Jayden…do you fear that?” —Cam Newton, Former NFL MVP
Wale acknowledged the apprehension shared by fans and insiders alike, responding,
“I mean, I think you always fear like we got PTSD of not winning for so long…It’s the kid from LSU but so we like damn like okay when is the honeymoon over…But I got to believe in the new organization, new GM…like we going in the right direction.” —Wale, Host
This dialogue captures the dilemma facing Jayden Daniels: hope for a franchise rebirth alongside a nagging worry drawn from painful memories of past failures.
Fragility Beneath the Surface: Early Signs of a Sophomore Slump?
While Daniels’ rookie year established him as a potential franchise savior, some underlying issues hint at challenges ahead. His pocket accuracy showed signs of inconsistency; he ranked 25th out of 36 quarterbacks with an 11.2% off-target rate inside the pocket. This affected his ability to consistently deliver precise throws under pressure. Defensive adjustments and Daniels’ rib injury limited his running frequency, with a scramble rate declining from 12.5% to 9.5% in his first season.
In particular, games where Daniels was forced to operate mainly from the pocket, such as the Week 18 matchup against Dallas, highlight the difficulties he faces without relying on his mobility. These glimpses suggest that sustaining breakout-level performance will require more than raw talent—it demands adaptation and a solid team structure.
The Role of Franchise Stability in Shaping Jayden Daniels’ Future
One of the greatest concerns surrounding Daniels is the turbulent environment within the Commanders’ organization. History warns of how a lack of coherent strategy, reckless play-calling, and franchise instability have crushed the careers of promising signal-callers. Robert Griffin III’s career is the cautionary tale highlighted by many observers who see the “curse” of Washington quarterbacks as a stubborn hurdle.
Before Griffin’s promising trajectory ended prematurely—partly due to a heavy usage rushing attack that led to injury—veteran voices had already sensed instability. Wale recounted a revealing conversation with Griffin before the Seahawks’ playoffs, saying,
“When he tore that jump, I just knew this was going to be hard to come back from,” —Wale, Host
This story reflects the precarious nature of a quarterback’s career in a franchise fraught with heavy external pressures and internal dysfunction. It is not merely Daniels’ physical ability on the field in question but the context in which he performs—how his talents are managed, and how the organization supports him under immense pressure.
The Delicate Balance: Breaking the Commanders’ Quarterback Curse
Jayden Daniels enters his second NFL season poised on a razor’s edge, where his efforts could either elevate the Washington Commanders into a new era or plunge him into the shadow of one of the league’s most famous quarterback ‘what ifs.’ Unlike RG3, Daniels’ success hinges on his ability to outlast the external factors that have historically undermined Washington’s signal-callers.
The tools are present: remarkable athleticism, a deep passion for the game, and the early career accolades to prove his capacity. Meanwhile, the team’s new management and front office changes offer a glimmer of hope for a more sustainable framework. The city, wearied by years of disappointment, may finally rally behind a genuine contender if Daniels can maintain momentum.
Ultimately, the NFL world will watch closely to see whether Jayden Daniels can overcome the weight of expectations and franchise instability. His breakthrough season was startling, but longevity and continued growth will determine if he breaks the pattern of great talent succumbing to circumstances or becomes yet another chapter in Washington’s quarterback saga.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened to Jayden Daniels?
A. In October, Daniels hurt his rib cartilage during a game with the Carolina Panthers. Two defenders fell on him after a 46-yard run in the first quarter. As a result of the injury, he couldn’t continue playing for the remainder of the match.
Q. Are Jayden Daniels parents?
A. Information on Jayden Daniels’ parents, Javon Daniels and Regina Jackson.
Q. What did Dan Quinn say about Jayden Daniels?
A. Coach Dan Quinn seems confident that Jayden Daniels will improve in his second year compared to his first. “Jayden Daniels never hesitates,” Quinn said, according to ProFootballTalk. “He is incredibly focused and determined to improve.”
Q. Why did they bench Jayden Daniels?
A. After the game, Quinn mentioned, “We didn’t plan it this way. We expected to continue with our original strategy.”
However, Jayden Daniels felt slight discomfort in his leg. Quinn said, “I decided to switch to Marcus Mariota at that moment.”