Quarterback Competition Heats Up as Season Approaches
- The Washington Commanders are not officially designating Jayden Daniels as their starting quarterback for training camp, sticking to a strategy of alternating him with Marcus Mariota.
- Head coach Dan Quinn indicated the team's desire for Daniels to evolve into the role.
- The coaching staff will assess when Daniels is adequately prepared to take on the starting position.
As the football season draws near, quarterback Daniels remains unfazed by his current status in the team hierarchy. With over a month until the season begins, he emphasizes that his focus is on practice and competition rather than being officially designated as the starter. "It's up to DQ and AP for the decision, but for me, I can control how hard I practice," Daniels stated, showcasing his commitment to improving his game. During the initial days of practice, Marcus Mariota has typically taken the lead in full-team drills, while Daniels has often been first in seven-on-seven sessions. His performance in situational drills, particularly in the red zone and two-minute scenarios, has demonstrated his potential. Coaches have noted his accuracy and touch, which were key factors in his selection by Washington before the draft. Head Coach Quinn expressed confidence in Daniels, stating, "We have an effective plan for him," highlighting the quarterback's eagerness to excel. Meanwhile, offensive coordinator Peters indicated that the team will assess Daniels' readiness before making any official announcements regarding the starting position. "You don't want to fast track it," Peters cautioned, emphasizing the importance of allowing players to develop at their own pace. Daniels himself is focused on mastering the nuances of the game, including understanding different coverages and making decisive plays. He looks forward to joint practices, where he can test his skills against other teams and gauge his progress in real-game scenarios.