Everyone is now well aware of how good Washington Commanders rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels is. The former LSU star has led the Commanders to the NFC Championship Game as a rookie, following up an impressive regular season with even better performances in the playoffs. How did he get here? The journey from a struggling college player to an NFL sensation is nothing short of remarkable.
Overcoming Early Struggles
Before Daniels was lighting up defenses in the NFL, he faced significant challenges during his first season at LSU. NFL Draft analyst Todd McShay recently shared an intriguing story about how Brian Kelly played a pivotal role in transforming Daniels into a more confident player. It’s a tale that resonates with anyone who has ever faced self-doubt.
The Turning Point at LSU
McShay joined Bill Simmons on his podcast to discuss Daniels and how he has blossomed into one of the brightest stars in the NFL. He recalled a crucial moment before the Tennessee game in 2022. “I remember being on the field with Brian Kelly before the game, and Tennessee came in as big favorites,” McShay said. “They wound up blowing out LSU in that game, but I was focused on Jayden.”
At that time, Daniels was struggling with confidence. McShay observed, “It looked like he can make all the throws, but he just doesn’t seem to trust it. The anticipation isn’t there.” This lack of trust was evident, and it was clear that something needed to change.
Brian Kelly’s Insight
Brian Kelly had a plan. “Watch the first play of this game. Just watch,” he told McShay. “We’re forcing him to make this throw. We’re trying to prove to him that if you just trust your read and your eyes and get the ball out on time, you’re special.” This was a bold move, but it was exactly what Daniels needed—a push to trust himself.
As the game unfolded, McShay was on the sideline, eagerly anticipating the first play. “It’s a deep comeback route to the left side. He gets back to the top of his drop and just rips it,” McShay described. The throw was risky; if it got picked, it could have been a pick-six. Yet, Daniels delivered a perfect throw, right on time. This moment marked the beginning of his confidence transformation.
Lessons Learned from Adversity
Despite the loss to Tennessee, where LSU fell 40-13, Daniels threw for 300 yards, showcasing his potential even in defeat. “Everyone in the local media was saying, ‘Oh, this Jayden Daniels is great. He hasn’t thrown an interception through five games,’” McShay recalled. But Kelly had a different perspective. “I can’t wait for him to throw an interception. It’s driving me f****** crazy that the media is talking about the interception thing,” he said. This insight highlighted the pressure Daniels was under, and the need for him to let go of his fears.
A Stellar College Career
Ultimately, Daniels overcame his concerns about throwing interceptions and proved his worth. In 2022, he threw for more than 2,900 yards and 17 touchdowns, but it was the following year that he truly shined. In 2023, he completed 72 percent of his passes for 3,812 yards and an astounding 40 touchdowns, with only four interceptions. He also rushed for over 1,100 yards and 10 scores, solidifying his status as a dual-threat quarterback.
From College Star to NFL Sensation
Daniels’ journey from a hesitant college player to a Heisman Trophy winner is inspiring. Winning the prestigious award in his final year at LSU, he demonstrated that with hard work and the right guidance, anyone can overcome obstacles. Now, as he takes the NFL by storm, he is already proving himself to be one of the best quarterbacks in the league.
The Road Ahead
As McShay noted, “That first throw was like the first step in his confidence. If I trust what I’m seeing and my instincts, I can build from here.” This mindset has propelled Daniels to new heights, and fans are eager to see how he continues to develop in the NFL. With each game, he is not just playing for himself; he represents the countless athletes who face self-doubt and strive to rise above it.
In the world of college football, stories like Jayden Daniels’ remind us of the power of perseverance and mentorship. As he leads the Washington Commanders, his journey serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring players everywhere. It’s a testament to the fact that with the right support and belief in oneself, greatness is achievable. What will be the next chapter in Daniels’ remarkable story? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: this is just the beginning.
