Jayden Daniels’ journey from Arizona State to LSU has been marked by stellar performances and a knack for making plays both with his arm and his legs. He has secured the coveted 2023 Heisman Trophy and was announced for the NFL draft. The signal-caller opted to showcase his potential on his own pro day, and turned heads with his performance.
However, a subtle jab from an AFC executive has stirred up conversation within football circles. The executive drew comparisons to 2023 NFL MVP Lamar Jackson, albeit with a twist. Referring to Daniels as “a poor man’s Lamar Jackson,” he pointed out concerns about the quarterback’s physique and durability.
“This is like a poor man’s Lamar Jackson to me. The biggest thing I always worried about (Daniels) is fu**ing skinny. He didn’t take a picture at the combine, he didn’t weigh in at the combine, that’s all by fuing design. He knows he’s fu**ing skinny. You worry about him getting hurt”, the executive said via SportsKeeda.
Daniels possesses the tools to excel in today’s NFL, where dual-threat quarterbacks are highly sought after. The executive didn’t shy away from pointing out the explosive sides of the young star.
“But because of his athleticism, he’s got a chance. I know they scaled the offense back (initially) for him at LSU. Now, I think they put more on him. He’s quick to run. His eyes are down. He gets fast and antsy on you in the pocket. And once he pulls that motherf***er down, he ain’t coming back up.”
Daniels’ supporters remain undeterred, pointing to Jayden Daniels’ track record of overcoming obstacles and exceeding expectations. He is now waiting for his next journey of being picked by an NFL team in the 2024 Draft.
Which NFL team is likely to pick Jayden Daniels?
The Washington Commanders appear to be the frontrunners, poised to select Jayden Daniels with the second overall pick. He has consistently stood out, edging ahead of competitors like Drake Maye in numerous evaluations. However, recent tensions have arisen following a group visit hosted by the Commanders for top quarterback prospects, including Daniels, Maye, J.J. McCarthy, and Michael Penix Jr.
Daniels and his agent, Ron Butler, expressed disappointment with the meeting, raising questions about their relationship with the franchise.
However, other teams are also vying for Daniels talents. The New England Patriots have reportedly expressed high interest in the quarterback, with ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler noting their readiness to select a quarterback in the draft. While the Patriots present a compelling option, Daniels himself has shown interest in joining the Las Vegas Raiders or Minnesota Vikings.
Moreover, hints from individuals close to Daniels fuel speculation about the QB’s destination. Malik Nabers, Daniels’ former teammate, suggested that the signal-caller could reunite with “an old homie.” This cryptic clue points towards a possible connection with the Raiders, where Daniels could potentially join forces with his former coach, Antonio Pierce.
