Commanders' Jayden Daniels earns unique praise after rookie season

Jayden Daniels had a spectacular rookie season for the Washington Commanders.

Jan 12, 2025; Tampa, Florida, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) celebrates after winning a NFC wild card playoff against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Raymond James Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images | Nathan Ray Seebeck-Imagn Images

The Washington Commanders have a 24-year-old star in Jayden Daniels, and that's a great place to be when starting to rebuild a franchise.

Bleacher Report writer Kristopher Knox named Daniels the best player at his age in the league right now.

Jan 26, 2025; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) runs with the ball against the Philadelphia Eagles during the second half in the NFC Championship game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images | Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

Daniels among the best of the 24-year-olds

"While detractors can certainly cite recency bias here, the fact remains that Daniels was good enough to transform a franchise in 2024. The reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year posted a 100.1 quarterback rating, rushed for 891 yards, made the Pro Bowl and took a team that won four games in 2023 to the most recent NFC title game," Knox writes.

"Intangibles matter, and Daniels' leadership skills and work ethic make him a true franchise centerpiece.

"Daniels has some terrific company in the age-24 bracket, but he's one of only a few NFL players around whom a franchise could build a contender."

If Daniels continues to play like he did in his rookie year, he'll be the best among the 25-year-olds in a year from now.

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