Jayden Daniels Projected as Early Pick in 2024 NFL Draft

With the 2024 NFL Draft approaching, LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels is emerging as a top prospect projected to be selected early in the first round. Daniels, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, is considered a frontrunner to be the second overall pick by the Washington Commanders.

Draft analysts predict that Daniels could be taken as high as the top five, with the Commanders and New England Patriots being potential landing spots. The Commanders, who hold the second overall pick, are reportedly leaning towards selecting Daniels, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter. However, Schefter noted that the team's decision is not yet finalized and they could change their mind after meeting with other quarterback prospects.

Daniels had a standout season at LSU in 2023, throwing for 3,812 yards with 40 touchdowns and only 4 interceptions, while also rushing for 1,134 yards and 10 touchdowns. His command from the pocket and dual-threat abilities make him an attractive option for teams seeking a franchise quarterback.

Why this matters: The 2024 NFL Draft is expected to be quarterback-heavy, with several teams in need of a franchise signal-caller. The success of the top quarterbacks selected, including Daniels, could shape the future of multiple NFL franchises for years to come.

While Daniels is the favorite to be the second quarterback drafted, he faces competition from North Carolina's Drake Maye and Michigan's J.J. McCarthy. NFL Network's Daniel Jeremiah stated that the Commanders are expected to stay at the second pick and select their preferred quarterback, which could be Daniels, Maye, or McCarthy.

The 2024 NFL Draft is set to take place on April 25th in Detroit. USC quarterback Caleb Williams is widely expected to be the first overall pick by the Chicago Bears, but the direction of the draft after that remains uncertain. With several quarterback-needy teams holding early picks, the order in which Daniels, Maye, McCarthy, and other top prospects are selected will be a major storyline to watch.

Key Takeaways

• Jayden Daniels, LSU QB, projected to be 2nd overall pick by Commanders.
• Daniels had standout 2023 season, throwing for 3,812 yards, 40 TDs, 4 INTs.
• 2024 NFL Draft expected to be QB-heavy, Daniels faces competition from Maye, McCarthy.
• Commanders reportedly leaning towards Daniels, but decision not finalized.
• Caleb Williams expected to be 1st overall pick by Bears, order of QB selections a key storyline.