Jayden Daniels has been in Washington for three years now but is still experiencing so much new this time of year. The Commanders quarterback is learning a new system and how to work with plenty of new skill players.
That includes tight end Chig Okonkwo, running back Rachaad White and third-round receiver Antonio Williams. Brandon Aiyuk is not part of that mix despite significant talk that he’ll sign with Washington after San Francisco inevitably releases him.
Daniels talked about all that and more
during a Wednesday press conference following the first Commanders OTA practice session at the team’s training complex.
His main focus was on building his foundation after a 2025 season that was marred by injuries and subsequent setbacks. It was a rough go after winning the NFL’s offensive roookie of the year award in 2024. The Commanders went 5-12 last season, largely due to the fact that Daniels was unavailable.
“It sucked,” Daniels said. “I wouldn’t say it was what I wanted, because I love football. The passion didn’t change. The experience made it more of a miserable feeling to not be able to go out there and do what I have to do on a daily basis without having setbacks.”
Daniels is focused on sustaining health and being a true team leader in his third NFL season.
“The standard hasn’t changed,” Daniels said. “I was able to come out here and make and impact, so guys will look at me since Year 1, but now it’s about building that connection with everybody within the locker room. I do have a voice and a lot of people listen to what I have to say. My goal is to continue to show up and be myself every day.”
Here’s what Daniels also had to say about…
New RB Rachaad White
“It’s gonna be fun. Just as the player he is, he had the opportunity to go anywhere else and he chose here, so salute to him. Obviously, I’ve known him since I was 19, so it’s fun get back together in the same building and build off that rapport we have.”
Third-round WR Antonio Williams
“He’s a smooth kid and very crafty within his routes. I’m excited to continue to build that rapport with him.”
Playing with TE Chig Okonkwo
“I’m super excited that we got Chig. I’m excited about how he plays. He plays fast. Everything is 100 percent with him. He’s smart and has been in this league for some time and now he gets to go out and show his talents on a bigger stage and have a bigger role in the offense.”
The prospects of acquiring Brandon Aiyuk
“I don’t have a sense on it. That’s my brother and we have a personal relationship, but his football future is out of my control.”
Terry McLaurin’s presence at OTAs
“We love Terry. It’s a big piece of this offense but also of this locker room. Even to have guys around — (Laremy Tunsil) and Terry were here – to help build that chemistry and connection, it means a lot.”
