Commanders' Jayden Daniels Shows Flashes, Leaves Fans Wanting More in Loss to Bucs

Jayden Daniels looked like the No. 2 overall pick on Sunday, showing off the explosive potential that made him the second quarterback off the board but the inexperience that plagues most rookie signal-callers. It was an uneven performance for the young quarterback in the 37-20 loss against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, as he finished 17-of-24 for 184 yards through the air with no interceptions or touchdowns and two sacks taken.

He was far more dynamic as a runner, rushing 16 times for 88 yards and two scores. Daniels undoubtedly showcased his ability to extend plays or break the pocket and reel off major gains. He also, at times, appeared to hold the ball too long and struggled to connect on routes down the field.



That earned him mixed reviews on social media, though the upside is hard to ignore: The contrast between the rookie and a veteran like Baker Mayfield—who finished 24-of-30 for 289 yards and four touchdowns—was palpable. Such is to be expected given that experience gap. And it certainly could have been worse.

The top overall pick, Chicago's Caleb Williams, got a win in his first game but finished just 14-of-29 for 93 yards with no touchdowns or interceptions. Bo Nix had a wild stat line, going 26-of-42 for just 138 yards, no touchdowns and two interceptions in Denver's Week 1 loss, adding a rushing score. Daniels is going to be entertaining this season given his explosive ability on the ground.

Until he and the Commanders improve in the passing game, however, moving the ball consistently is going to be a struggle. And it may all be a moot point if the Washington defense remains as hapless as it looked against Mayfield and the Bucs..