When you watch a Washington Commanders game, it’s not uncommon to see rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels take a big hit downfield. If you go back and watch Daniels’ college career, this is nothing new.
However, Daniels is now the face of Washington’s franchise. You could argue that no player was more valuable to his team’s success than Daniels. Yes, we include superstars such as Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, and Lamar Jackson. No, we aren’t saying Daniels is better than those guys right now, but he took a four-win team to the NFC championship in one year.
So, when Daniels takes a hit, Washington fans cringe. Yet, Daniels pops right back up, often with a smile on his face.
I challenge you to find another QB laughing in the middle of a 10 player pig pile
Jayden Daniels loves every part of the game pic.twitter.com/fcofKD0nia
— RefTheDistrict (@RefTheDistrict) January 3, 2025
Why does Daniels smile, even after a big hit?
“It’s football,” Daniels said. “You’re going to get hit; I’m not hurt. It’s a hit; if somebody gets a good hit on me, man, it’s a good hit. And move on to the next play.”
That’s a terrific attitude from the rookie. What’s even more impressive is how calm Daniels is in other situations, such as the game-winning field goal in Tampa two weeks ago. While his teammates celebrated around him, Daniels didn’t even crack a smile, and it was business as usual.
Next up for Daniels is a third game against the Philadelphia Eagles. With a win, Daniels would be the first rookie quarterback ever to start in the Super Bowl.