The Washington Commanders began their 2025 training camp on Wednesday, marking an important phase for both returning and new players. While receiver Terry McLaurin was absent due to a holdout, notable teammates like outside linebacker Von Miller debuted in person, and Deebo Samuel stepped up as the team’s primary receiving target during McLaurin’s absence.
Jayden Daniels Faces Spotlight as He Returns for His Second Season
Among the many storylines at training camp, much attention centers on Jayden Daniels, the team’s promising quarterback. Sports Illustrated’s Mike Kadlick raised a critical question about Daniels: can he truly establish himself as the franchise’s long-term signal caller? Daniels arrived at the Commanders with a remarkable rookie season under his belt, boasting a 12-5 record, earning the Offensive Rookie of the Year award, and leading the team to an <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/nfc/”>NFC Championship Game appearance.
Despite these achievements, the challenge lies in consistency and growth. Will Daniels replicate or even exceed his rookie success in his sophomore year? According to Kadlick, the answer leans toward yes, as NFL executives have already ranked Daniels among the top five quarterbacks league-wide. Moreover, the acquisition of Deebo Samuel promises to bolster the receiving corps and aid Daniels on the field.
The easy answer is yes. Executives across the NFL have already dubbed Daniels as the fifth-best quarterback in the sport—a high bar as he enters just his second season—and the addition of Deebo Samuel to the wide receiver room should only help him improve in Year 2. But seeing is believing. The floor is yours, JD5.
—Mike Kadlick, Sports Illustrated
Coaches Expect Jayden Daniels To Lead and Command the Offense
Coming off one of the most impressive rookie campaigns the NFL has seen in recent years, Daniels is now expected to not only manage but own the Commanders’ offense. Early reports from offseason programs such as OTAs and the mandatory minicamp have been encouraging, reinforcing optimism about his development. Even without McLaurin’s presence at the start of camp, Daniels appears poised to continue building momentum heading into the season.
The Broader Impact and What to Watch Moving Forward
As training camp progresses, Daniels’ ability to silence doubters and answer lingering questions will be crucial for the Commanders’ trajectory in 2025. His performance could define not only his career but the franchise’s future leadership on the field. Support from coaches, new teammates like Deebo Samuel, and the growing confidence around the team collectively contribute to a hopeful outlook.
Fans and analysts alike are closely monitoring how Washington integrates its new weapons and if defensive players will emerge as significant contributors. The overall progress during training camp will set the tone for the Commanders as they prepare for the regular season.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. What happened to Jayden Daniels?
A. Daniels got hurt in October when playing the Carolina Panthers. Two defenders fell on him after he ran for 46 yards during the first quarter. He injured his rib cartilage and could not continue the game.
Q. Are Jayden Daniels parents?
A. Learn about Jayden Daniels’ family, including his parents, Javon Daniels and Regina Jackson.
Q. What did Dan Quinn say about Jayden Daniels?
A. Coach Dan Quinn appears to believe that Jayden Daniels will improve in his second year compared to his first in the league. “Jayden Daniels shows no hesitation,” Quinn mentioned in an interview with ProFootballTalk. “He is incredibly focused and determined to improve.”
Q. Why did they bench Jayden Daniels?
A. Quinn mentioned after the game, “We didn’t plan it that way. We intended to continue with our original lineup.”
However, Jayden Daniels experienced slight leg soreness, prompting a change. “I decided to say, ‘Let’s go with Marcus Mariota,'” Quinn explained.