Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels says he is ready to go after being selected to start in the first pre-season match.
It may only be a warm-up, but it will be the first chance for Washington fans to see what their No.2 draft pick can do and it presents an opportunity for Daniels to stamp his authority in the squad.
Coach Dan Quinn confirmed Daniels’ starting spot when they face the New York Jets, although he did not confirm whether he will play the entire match.
But Daniels is excited, regardless of the amount of minutes he gets.
Speaking at his training camp, the 23-year-old said: “I’m very excited, I love playing, love to compete. Going out there will be a different challenge.
“I’ve still got some ways to go. Just little stuff. It’s their decision and I trust them fully. For me, I just go out there and [think], how can I better myself every day? And compete hard.
“It’s my first one ever. I don’t know what I’m getting myself into, so just go out there and have fun.”
54 & 5 🤞 pic.twitter.com/WY5nIt5JYj
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) August 4, 2024
Quinn mentioned that he wants Daniels to play in these matches to give him the experience of what the NFL will be like.
Veteran Marcus Mariota is also expected to be present but has taken a secondary role in the field during training camp.
He had been the first QB during 11 vs 11 sessions, but there has been a lot of praise for Daniels as the days have passed, leading to a growing reputation.
Quinn added: “It’s the decision making that I’ve been really impressed by, not just throwing but playing the position, ‘this coverage goes to here, I got a matchup I want I go to here.
“There’s skill work and processing work. The processing part for him has been excellent.
“The games are important to go and play and get ready. And so not just with Jayden but with everybody. There’s a lot of important elements for a lot of guys.”
The Commanders will play at the Jets’ facility in New Jersey on Thursday.
Daniels will be facing a tough NFL defence that ranked third in yards per game and fourth in opponents’ quarterback rating.
