All signs are pointing to Caleb Williams being the #1 overall pick in the upcoming 2024 NFL draft and rightfully so. Williams is a generational talent with loads of potential. The main question around NFL circles is who is second best, Drake Maye or Jayden Daniels?
In my mind, there is a clear favorite and it’s Daniels. Not only that but the more I study his game the more I am convinced Daniels is closer to Williams than Maye.
The Intangibles
Jayden Daniels had the best season of any quarterback prospect in the upcoming draft. Daniels finished his 2023 campaign with 40 touchdowns and just 4 interceptions. He also rushed for over 1,000 yards and had 10 rushing touchdowns. This was all against SEC defenses and he capped off his season by winning the Heisman trophy in December.
Daniels is listed at 6′ 4″ and 210 lbs according to his latest measurements. He has ideal size but will need to put on 10-15 lbs this offseason. He is a top level athlete with an excellent arm and can make all the throws you look for in an NFL quarterback. Perhaps his greatest intangible is his quick release which looks at times almost effortless.
Another trait that stands out for Daniels is his pocket movement. He has the ability to maneuver the pocket like an NFL quarterback and take off and run when he needs to. The play below vs. Florida is a perfect example of this.
Jayden Daniels now has 220 rushing yards vs. Florida. pic.twitter.com/P1lbfOfHgK
— Jordan Reid (@Jordan_Reid) November 12, 2023
This play is what many NFL execs look for in a modern-day quarterback. It is sometimes referred to as the 2nd play. If the play breaks down does the quarterback have the ability to reset, take off or scramble and find the open receiver. Lamar Jackson is elite at doing this and you can see many of the same traits in Daniels game.
Jayden Daniels is not without weaknesses though. He tends to take too many unnecessary hits and this is a concern considering his frame. Once he gets to the NFL this will be the main focus for whichever team selects him. There are also times he can move on from his reads too quickly. Again, this can be addressed at the next level.
Could Jayden Daniels go #1?
Before the start of the 2023 season, it would’ve been crazy to think Daniels could leap over Caleb Williams. Fast forward to now and it’s worth a debate. As we get closer to the 2024 NFL draft I believe this will be more of a topic and the Daniels hype train to heat up. Still, when the Chicago Bears do make their pick I expect them to grab Williams.
This would mean Daniels would be available for the Washington Commanders and I expect them to select him with the 2nd pick. This is reflected in our latest 2024 NFL Mock Draft. A lot could change between now and April so buckle up!
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