Jayden Daniels Looks Like Himself Again, and the Commanders Are Dreaming Big
ASHBURN, Va. — The Washington Commanders didn't spend big on stars this offseason, choosing instead to build depth. But their most important addition was a healthy Jayden Daniels, and so far this summer, the 25-year-old quarterback looks like the playmaker who took the NFL by storm as a rookie in 2024.
In a joint practice Wednesday against the Miami Dolphins, Daniels was sharp. His deep balls were on time and on target, his mobility was on display, and he even turned a broken play into a successful shovel pass. It's early, but the Commanders are hoping he can recapture the magic that carried them to the NFC Championship Game two years ago.
Why a Healthy Jayden Daniels Changes Everything for Washington
Daniels was limited to just seven games last season due to a sprained knee and a dislocated elbow. Without him, the Commanders collapsed. With him, they believe they can contend again, even if the roster around him looks thin on paper.
Linebacker Leo Chenal, who signed with Washington in March after four seasons in Kansas City, sees it every day.
“He's one of the greatest playmakers in the league. We've all seen what he's capable of. When I wasn't here, I was like, 'Dang, this dude's a playmaker.' You can just see it. You've got to respect that and what he's able to do with the ball in his hands.”
The Commanders did add receiver Stefon Diggs, but he's 32. Terry McLaurin, their other reliable target, is 31 and coming off an injury-filled season. Tight end Zach Ertz and receiver Deebo Samuel are gone. The offense will lean heavily on Daniels to elevate everyone around him.
Daniels Staying Grounded Despite High Expectations
Daniels isn't getting ahead of himself.
“We're just putting in the work to get there. I wouldn't say we're in midseason form. We're just going day by day.”
His rookie numbers were historic: 3,568 passing yards, 25 touchdowns, nine interceptions, and 891 rushing yards with six more scores. He gave Washington its first NFC Championship Game appearance in 33 years. The question now is whether he can stay healthy enough to do it again.
Stefon Diggs Looks Like a Perfect Fit for Daniels
Diggs looked like he and Daniels had been playing together for years. The two were in sync throughout practice, with Diggs making several tough catches in traffic and showing he can still get open. He even hauled in a leaping touchdown catch, getting his toes down in the corner of the end zone.
“This is his field. He's a dog. He goes out and makes plays. He brings energy.”
A healthy Diggs and McLaurin could form a formidable duo, giving younger receivers like Luke McCaffrey, Treylon Burks, and Antonio Williams time to develop.
Commanders Face a Big Loss on the Offensive Line
The loss of left tackle Laremy Tunsil to a torn triceps is a real concern. Brandon Coleman struggled at times in his place against Miami's defensive front.
“You can't replace LT. LT is one of one.”
The line was up and down in practice, and replacing a player of Tunsil's caliber won't be easy.
Dolphins Look Like a Rebuilding Team, Whether They Admit It or Not
Miami's offense struggled mightily against Washington's defense. Quarterback Malik Willis was forced out of the pocket repeatedly and wasn't accurate on the run. His receiving corps is thin, and the offensive line was dominated.
Running back De'Von Achane might be the only reliable weapon, and coach Jeff Hafley has floated the idea of giving him 40 touches a game. That may sound extreme, but based on what the Dolphins showed Wednesday, it might be their only path to scoring.
Defensively, first-round pick Chop Robinson was a bright spot, giving Commanders right tackle Josh Conerly fits and living in the backfield. Miami lost its best pass rusher, Bradley Chubb, in free agency, so Robinson's production will be critical.
What This Means for the NFC East and Beyond
The Commanders look more like last year's team than the 2024 juggernaut on paper. But if Daniels is truly back, he can elevate this roster the way he did as a rookie. Washington's hopes rest almost entirely on his shoulders.
The Dolphins, meanwhile, look destined for a long season. Hafley may be a good coach, but unless Willis suddenly becomes a star, Miami could be one of the worst teams in the league.
For Commanders fans, the message is simple: if Daniels is healthy, anything is possible.