Commanders urge Jayden Daniels to focus on passing after debut

Jayden Daniels made a notable NFL debut with the Washington Commanders, rushing 16 times for 88 yards and two touchdowns during their season-opening loss to Tampa Bay. Despite his impressive performance, the coaching staff, led by head coach Dan Quinn, expressed a desire for Daniels to focus more on passing rather than relying heavily on his running ability. They believe that as he gains experience, he will learn to balance his dual-threat capabilities more effectively. Daniels, who was the No. 2 pick in the draft after winning the Heisman Trophy, showcased his potential as a top prospect due to his athleticism and passing skills. However, his 16 carries matched the highest for any quarterback in Week 1, raising concerns about his long-term health and the risk of injury. Former players and analysts, including Ryan Fitzpatrick and Andrew Whitworth, emphasized the importance of managing his running to avoid significant contact. The Commanders are looking to develop Daniels into a more traditional passer while still utilizing his running talent as a strategic weapon. Fellow rookie Luke McCaffrey noted that the quarterback must find a balance between passing and running to enhance the offense's efficiency. The coaching staff is optimistic about Daniels' growth and believes he will adapt to the demands of the NFL. As the Commanders prepare to face the New York Giants, the focus will be on how Daniels can evolve as a quarterback while minimizing risks associated with his running game. The team aims to support him in becoming a more well-rounded player in the coming weeks.