Jayden Daniels, the Washington Commanders' quarterback, is preparing for the 2026 NFL season after a disappointing 2025 campaign marked by injuries and inconsistent play. The Heisman Trophy winner, who led the Commanders to the NFC Championship Game as the Offensive Rookie of the Year in 2024, played just seven games last season due to persistent injuries. His QBR dropped from 67.7 in 2024 to 44.7 in 2025, and Washington finished with a 5-12 record, missing the playoffs entirely.
Daniels acknowledged the challenges of his injury-plagued season, stating in an interview with Sports Illustrated's Albert Breer that many people "last saw [him] getting hurt," adding, "I can’t live off of what was done in ’24." He also praised his peers from the 2024 NFL Draft class, including Drake Maye, Caleb Williams, and Bo Nix, who advanced further in the playoffs. Daniels expressed optimism about returning to form in Week 1 of the 2026 season, emphasizing his opportunity to "remind a lot of people" of his talents.
Commanders' Offseason Moves
The Commanders have made several roster adjustments to support Daniels' potential rebound. General manager Adam Peters prioritized trench depth and defensive reinforcements, including signing pass rusher Charles Omenihu and drafting former Michigan safety Sonny Styles. The team also re-signed key interior trench pieces like offensive guard Sam Cosmi and defensive tackle Daron Payne, while adding veteran offensive line depth to protect Daniels. Head coach Dan Quinn emphasized the team's belief that last season's struggles were primarily health-related, aiming to return to contention in the NFC East.
New Offensive Scheme
Daniels will operate under a revamped offensive scheme led by new offensive coordinator David Blough, who was promoted this offseason. Daniels described the scheme as a "great fit" for his playing style, expressing excitement about the opportunity to run it. The Commanders' offense struggled in 2025, finishing near the bottom of the league in DVOA (Defense-adjusted Value Over Average) and losing several one-possession games. With Daniels expected to return to full health, the offense is projected to improve, particularly with Terry McLaurin and Stefon Diggs as key targets.
Comparisons to Draft Class Peers
Daniels' 2024 rookie season performance initially positioned him as the standout quarterback from his draft class. However, after Maye led the New England Patriots to the Super Bowl and Williams showcased his potential with highlight plays, some observers have shifted their assessments. Daniels, however, remains focused on his own trajectory, stating, "Hopefully, down the line, we can go down as the greatest QB class. I know we have a long way to go."
The Commanders' 2026 season will hinge on Daniels' ability to stay healthy and execute the new offensive scheme effectively. With roster upgrades and a fresh system in place, Washington aims to reclaim its competitive edge in the NFC East.