Jayden Daniels excited to ‘change the culture’ of Washington Commanders

The new regime of the Washington Commanders made former LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels their first draft pick during Thursday’s 2024 NFL Draft.

Washington selected Daniels, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, No. 2 overall, solidifying the most important position on the field for both the now and the future. Daniels, joining a franchise with just one playoff appearance dating back to 2015, said he wants to come in and “change the culture” in Washington.

“I’m very confident,” Daniels said Thursday, via the team’s official website. “Obviously, it’s a new regime there and, you know, I’m excited just to come in and really just change the culture and help the team win in each and every way that I can. Come in, work hard and we’ll see where the course takes itself.”

Daniels, 23, played three seasons at Arizona State before transferring to LSU to play under head coach Brian Kelly. Daniels took his game to another level in Baton Rouge, throwing for 6,725 yards, 57 touchdowns and seven interceptions on 70.2% passing across two seasons. He added 2,019 yards and 21 touchdowns on the ground.

Jayden Daniels ‘excited’ to get to work in Washington

Daniels will have plenty of veteran talent to work with on the offensive side of the ball. The Commanders further helped him out by adding former Kansas State tight end Ben Sinnott in the second round and former Rice wideout Luke McCaffrey in the third.

Daniels said he’s excited to get to work with such a talented group of players.

“I’m excited. I’m excited to come in and get to work,” Daniels said. “I know Jahan [Dotson] previously just, you know, we’re kind of around the same age. Obviously, what Terry [McLaurin] has done at the next level. You got a great running back in Brian Robinson [Jr.]. You know, Austin Ekeler, those guys are very explosive players. New additions with Zach Ertz. I’m just happy to come in and learn how to be a pro. I’m excited to get to work. Excited to meet my new teammates.”