[FICHE DRAFT] JAYDEN DANIELS (QB), LAMAR JACKSON 2.0 ?

Jayden Daniels – Quarterback – 23 years old – Senior – LSU

Height: 1.93m

Weight: 93 kg 2023

Stats: 12 games, 236/327 (72%), 3812 yards, 40 touchdowns, 4 interceptions – 135 rushes, 1134 yards, 10 touchdowns

Projected Draft Position: 1st Round (Top 5) NFL Comparison: Jalen Hurts

2023 was Jayden Daniels‘ season. Heisman Trophy winner (equivalent to college MVP), the LSU quarterback has improved in all areas required for the position. Certainly, he still has progress to make, like any rookie. But one thing is certain: he is among the best quarterbacks in this class.

Next April, while it seems unlikely for him to create a surprise as the number 1 pick, does his exceptional last season suffice to be the second quarterback called? In any case, his numerous qualities make him an intriguing prospect who could (perhaps) shine every NFL Sunday.

Jayden Daniels’ Strengths

• Dual threat

• Accuracy on the move

• Athleticism

In his college career spanning 2 teams (Arizona State, LSU), Jayden Daniels has amassed an impressive 124 touchdowns. 89 through the air and 35 on the ground. In addition to the statistics, the quarterback isn’t afraid to leave the pocket to try to gain a first down.

To achieve this, he can do it with his arm, where his accuracy on the move is sometimes exceptional. Like several great NFL quarterbacks, Jayden Daniels is capable of buying time to allow his receivers to get open. This is a quality that recruiters cannot deny in modern NFL. One can also note a marked improvement in pocket management, allowing him to throw accurately from it.

Yet, it’s with his legs that he often makes the difference. The quarterback is capable of escaping several defenders by being more intelligent than powerful in his runs. With over 3000 yards in his college career, including 1134 in his last collegiate year, his athletic potential is more than interesting. Combining this with precision in throws is a rare quality, and Jayden Daniels possesses it. Thus, he can change the course of a game with a spectacular play.

For a coach or an offensive coordinator looking for a dual threat, the playbook can be very diverse with Jayden Daniels to deceive the smartest or most athletic defenders.

Jayden Daniels’ Weaknesses

• Footwork

• First read

• Physical qualities

The first flaw that can be found is his way of stepping back to see the game (dropback). His footwork and legwork are not optimal. If the pocket is clean, it won’t show. Otherwise, Jayden Daniels can sometimes panic and make risky decisions. The quarterback can therefore struggle to deal with defenses changing schemes just before the snap.

His first read is often messy, due to poor preparation of his process. This can lead to inaccuracies and a game that can be fatal to his team.

Escaping the defense is good. Otherwise, retaining the ball is a necessity to avoid turning it over to the opponent. Jayden Daniels may have incredible athletic qualities, but his physical attributes are not exceptional. Faced with a more aggressive and physical defender than him, the ball could slip away from him. In the NFL, he will have to work in the gym to “muscle” his game.

Possible Destinations

Washington Commanders, New England Patriots, Minnesota Vikings, Denver Broncos, Las Vegas Raiders.

All the mentioned teams are in search of their future number 1 quarterback. After that, it’s all about playing style.

Kliff Kingsbury, the offensive coordinator of the Commanders, has had athletic quarterbacks under his direction. Jayden Daniels is a quarterback in the same style as Kyler Murray, but taller. Development under his tutelage promises to be more than interesting.

The same goes for Luke Getsy, the offensive coordinator of the Raiders, who coached a dual-threat profile recently with Justin Fields. The problem is the position of the Las Vegas team in the Draft. Unless a trade sends Las Vegas into the top 5, the chances of seeing Jayden Daniels there are slim.

The same goes for the Vikings and the Broncos, even if the quarterback’s playing style may not be compatible with the philosophies proposed by Kevin O’Connell and Sean Payton.

Finally, for the Patriots, selecting Jayden Daniels could break with the tradition of the pocket passer quarterback. With a new offensive staff, seeing the former LSU quarterback succeed Mac Jones is more than likely.