Nor'easter No-Go: Winter Weather Keeping Patriots from Drafting Jayden Daniels?
Living with winter precipitation and sub-freezing temperatures is a love-hate relationship that native New Englanders know all too well.
However, could it be a deal-breaker when it comes to the New England Patriots finding their next franchise quarterback?
Former LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels, considered one of the top three players at his position in this year’s NFL Draft class, is reportedly being advised by those close to him to think twice (or perhaps, thrice) about agreeing to make Foxboro, Mass. his home for the foreseeable future.
"There are some around Daniels who would really rather he not come to New England," seemingly due to the harsh winter weather, as reported by Phil Perry of NBC Sports Boston.
Daniels, a native of San Bernardino, California, played his college football at Arizona State before moving on to LSU. Therefore, his experience playing in colder weather has been scant, at best.
Still, the 2023 Heisman trophy winner, has been projected as the Patriots most-likely selection by several mock-draft pundits — with USC’s Caleb Williams being selected by the Chicago Bears and No. 1 and the Washington Commanders following-up with UNC signal-caller Drake Maye at No. 2. Playing most of the games in Chapel Hill or Los Angeles, it's not as if Maye and Williams are snowbirds, themselves.
To the satisfaction of Patriots Nation, the ex-Tiger appeared to enjoy his experience in meeting with the Patriots at last week’s NFL Scouting Combine.
“It was good,” Daniels said. “Just to be able to put a name to a face. I know the names of those guys, so to be able to sit down and have a human contact, talk eye-to-eye with them. It was just great to go in there and just talk and get to know them and they get to know me.”
Daniels completed 72 percent of his passes in 2023 for 3,812 yards, 40 touchdowns and four interceptions. He also 10 rushing touchdowns, making him one of the top dual-threat quarterback prospects in the nation. While his pocket presence is still considered a work-in-progress, his athleticism would make him an exciting addition to New England.
Would Daniels welcome the opportunity to bring the Patriots back to glory? Just days ago, the former Tiger seemed not only open, but also optimistic about the possibility.
“Yeah it would be dope," Daniels said Friday morning when asked about potentially being drafted by New England. "Obviously growing up and seeing what Tom Brady did there, six Super Bowls, that's tough to live up to. But it would be dope to come in there and see the success they had and help them get back on that track."
It should be noted that any reported concerns surrounding winter weather climate have yet to come directly from Daniels. Still, should any qualms exist, his ability to rise above adverse conditions —especially in January’s postseason slate — will be scrutinized a bit closer in the days leading up to April’s draft.
