Howie Long, the celebrated former NFL defensive end and current Fox Sports analyst, has stirred up a storm with his bold assertion regarding rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. During a recent episode of Fox NFL Sunday, Long claimed that Daniels, who plays for the Washington Commanders, ranks among the top six quarterbacks in the league today. This statement has ignited a flurry of debate among fans and analysts alike.
Long’s comments came ahead of the NFC Championship game, where he made the claim that only five NFL teams would be unwilling to trade their starting quarterback for Daniels. He stated, “I think there are only five teams, if people around the league were being honest, that would not trade their quarterback, right now, for Jayden Daniels.” This assertion places Daniels in elite company, suggesting he is only behind the likes of Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen, Joe Burrow, Lamar Jackson, and Justin Herbert.
Daniels, selected second overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, has indeed had a remarkable rookie season, leading the Commanders to the NFC Championship game. Despite a tough loss to the Philadelphia Eagles, where they fell 55-23, Daniels showcased his talent throughout the season. He finished 16th in the league for passing yards and threw 25 touchdowns, ranking him tenth in that category. His performance has put him in contention for the Offensive Rookie of the Year award, alongside other standout players like Bo Nix and Brock Bowers.
Fans have not held back in their reactions to Long’s statement. Many took to social media to voice their opinions, questioning whether teams like the Los Angeles Chargers or the Philadelphia Eagles would truly consider trading their star quarterbacks for the rookie. One fan remarked, “Chargers: Whoa whoa whoa. Just a minute…” while another pointed out, “Pretty sure Philly is all set.” The debate has highlighted the varying perspectives on Daniels’ potential and the value of established quarterbacks.
Long specifically mentioned that the Kansas City Chiefs, Buffalo Bills, Cincinnati Bengals, Baltimore Ravens, and Los Angeles Chargers would be the only teams to keep their current quarterbacks over Daniels. This claim has led to discussions about the future of quarterbacks like Justin Herbert and Joe Burrow. Some fans argued that both would be traded in a heartbeat for the rookie sensation, while others defended their current QBs, emphasizing that teams like the Texans would not abandon CJ Stroud.
The passionate discourse surrounding Long’s comments underscores the excitement and unpredictability of the NFL. As the league evolves, rookie quarterbacks like Daniels are making their mark, challenging the status quo. With the 2023 Heisman Trophy winner now in the spotlight, the question remains: Is he truly among the best in the league, or is this just a case of overzealous praise from a former player?
Daniels’ journey has been nothing short of extraordinary. He has quickly become a fan favorite, and his performance has sparked conversations about the future of the quarterback position in the NFL. The young quarterback’s ability to lead his team to the playoffs in his first year is a testament to his skill and potential. As he continues to develop, many are eager to see how he will fare against the league’s elite.
The debate over Long’s comments also reflects a broader trend in the NFL, where rookie quarterbacks are increasingly stepping into starting roles and making significant impacts. With the right coaching and support, these young players can thrive in high-pressure situations, as demonstrated by Daniels’ performance throughout the season.
As the NFL playoffs progress and the Super Bowl approaches, all eyes will be on the quarterbacks leading their teams. Will Jayden Daniels solidify his place among the league’s elite, or will he face challenges that test his mettle? The excitement of the postseason only adds to the anticipation surrounding his future.
In the end, Howie Long’s bold claim may have sparked controversy, but it has also opened the door for important discussions about the evolving landscape of the NFL quarterback position. With fans passionately weighing in on the matter, it’s clear that the debate will continue as the league moves forward. Whether you’re a fan of Daniels or a supporter of established stars, one thing is certain: the NFL is full of surprises, and the future looks bright for young quarterbacks like Jayden Daniels.
