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Jayden Daniels names the Commanders teammate who feels like a big brother

As he heads into Year 2 with the Commanders, Jayden Daniels looks back on the influence of Bobby Wagner and how it helped him adapt to the league.
Darius Hayes|
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
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

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Washington Commanders

The Washington Commanders are putting their faith in quarterback Jayden Daniels to lead a new era under head coach Dan Quinn.

Daniels is already showing a level of maturity beyond his years, thanks in part to the influence of veteran linebacker Bobby Wagner.

Speaking on the Gruden Goes Long podcast, the Commanders’ young franchise quarterback reflected on his early days in the NFL and credited Wagner with helping him navigate the league's steep learning curve.

READ MORE: Former Commanders QB may be on the move again this offseason

Washington Commanders linebacker Bobby Wagner
Dec 15, 2024; New Orleans, Louisiana, USA; Washington Commanders linebacker Bobby Wagner (54) looks on against the New Orleans Saints during the first half at Caesars Superdome. Mandatory Credit: Stephen Lew-Imagn Images | Stephen Lew-Imagn Images

“Man, like Bobby, you know, that’s my guy,” Daniels said. “He’s like a big brother, little brother dynamic. He took me under his wing and everything.”

Washington added the 34-year-old Wagner in free agency, reuniting him with Quinn from their days together in Seattle. With over a decade of NFL experience and multiple All-Pro selections to his name, Wagner brings not just production, but leadership to a young locker room. This is something Daniels has already benefited from in the early stages of his pro career.

“I went in with an open mindset, like, ‘Man, I got so much to learn about this game. I don’t know anything about the NFL. I don’t know how the season’s gonna go,’” Daniels said. “So I’m gonna rely on the vets who’ve been through it multiple years—how they take care of their body, how they approach watching film and stuff like that.”

Now entering his second year after a surprisingly poised and productive rookie campaign, Daniels is continuing to build on the foundation he laid with guidance from veterans like Wagner. With increased expectations and a full offseason as the starter, the young quarterback’s growth will be one of the most important storylines in Washington this season.

READ MORE: NFL insider suggests Commanders should make huge move in NFL Draft

Stick with CommanderGameday and the Locked On Commanders podcast for more FREE coverage of the Washington Commanders throughout the 2025 offseason.

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Darius Hayes
DARIUS HAYES

Darius Hayes is a writer and contributor for 2 On SI sites, where he covers multiple teams as well as the Atlanta Braves. His work reflects his passion for sports, especially as a lifelong Philadelphia sports fan. Hayes grew up in Trenton, N.J., and now resides in Atlanta, Ga. He earned his Bachelor’s degree in Journalism from the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee and his Master’s in Communications from Georgia State University. In addition to journalism, Hayes serves in the Georgia Army National Guard. He can be followed on Twitter @dariushayes55.

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