LSU QB Jayden Daniels dismisses reports he doesn't want to play for Commanders

DETROIT — A little more than 24 hours from the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, many NFL prospects in attendance for the event seem to know nothing concrete about their eventual fate. After USC quarterback Caleb Williams, the presumptive No. 1 overall pick to the Chicago Bears on Thursday, the rest of the picture — especially with the top quarterbacks — gets cloudier.

But for LSU’s Jayden Daniels, he said he’ll be happy going wherever he ends up.

Daniels is regarded as the likely second pick, currently held by the Washington Commanders. On Wednesday, he refuted recent media speculation that Washington may not be his preferred destination, affirming that he would be “100 percent” okay if the Commanders choose him as their second overall draft.

Daniels expressed his gratitude at Wednesday’s “Play Football” event with Special Olympics athletes, telling reporters, “I have the privilege to go wherever I’m summoned.” He added, “Regardless of who contacts me, once the commissioner announces my name, I would consider myself fortunate, and they can expect my complete dedication.”

“That’s an excellent opportunity. They have faith in me, and I assure you, I’m going to put in the necessary work.”

Daniels mentioned that he hasn’t obtained any conclusive information about how the situation would unfold in real time. He humorously stated that his only anticipation for the first round was “to hear my name called”. He further added that any influence he might have exerted on the process was no longer within his control.

Daniels stated, “I don’t have a say in it. My only option is to count my blessings wherever I am.”

Daniels was one of about 20 NFL prospects — including other QBs such as UNC’s Drake Maye, Michigan’s J.J. McCarthy and Washington’s Michael Penix Jr. — whom the Commanders invited on a team visit simultaneously, taking the group to a local Topgolf for some friendly long-driving competition. Daniels told reporters that he did not view the visit as some measure of their competitiveness, but rather a way to get a feel for how the players all interacted.

Daniels confessed that his golf skills are still at a basic level, but he thoroughly enjoyed his time with the guys. He appreciated the opportunity to socialize with others during the event and relished the chance to have some fun. He described the experience as cool.

Daniels has contemplated the experience of playing in a Kliff Kingsbury offensive, having interacted with the new Commanders offensive coordinator during their visit and at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis.

“Obviously his track record with mobile quarterbacks, you know, Kyler (Murray), Pat Mahomes, Johnny Manziel in college,” Daniels said. “I’ve been familiar with Kliff, as he was (with the) Arizona (Cardinals) when I was at Arizona State, so I’m pretty much there with (what he does).”

Is it certain that Daniels will head to Washington? Increasing gossip suggests that the Raiders are making efforts to secure the second pick in hopes of drafting Daniels. He was vague when asked about the possibility of the Raiders selecting him.

Daniels stated, “I’m in the same boat as everyone else, unsure of what’s going to happen. I’ve heard from others saying, ‘Hey, expect the unexpected on draft day.’ But, we’ll just have to wait and see.”

Daniels and Raiders head coach Antonio Pierce go way back to their time at Arizona State, even before Daniels’ high school years. Pierce, who was on staff at ASU, recruited Daniels and confidently assured him that he would one day clinch the Heisman Trophy. Daniels did win the Heisman, but by then, Pierce had moved to the Raiders and Daniels was playing for LSU.

“Daniels spoke favorably about the prospect of playing for Pierce and the Raiders, saying, “It would be good.” He added, “I mean, any place I go will be a blessing. However, I’ve known AP since my teenage years. Our off-field relationship would make it particularly meaningful.”

Maye was not displaying any signs of stress on Wednesday concerning the outcome of Round 1. He disclosed that he had “some idea” of his potential landing spot, but did not reveal it.

“I’m uncertain. I wish I had definitive answers,” Maye informed the press in Detroit. “It’s not quite that simple, but I’m prepared to go anywhere.”

When questioned about feeling nervous a day before learning his draft fate, Maye implied that he had been free from such feelings for some time now.

“He expressed his excitement, stating, “I believe I’ve gotten all the nerves out during all the meetings and formal interviews and all. At the moment, I’m simply preparing to enjoy it and, hopefully, to hear my name being called.”

The Patriots, being at No. 3, seem like a suitable place for the product from North Carolina. However, New England has also been receiving trade inquiries, with the Giants and Vikings being mentioned as two potential options. Maye expressed his joy upon hearing that several teams might be interested in advancing for him.

“This is significant to me,” expressed Maye. “I believe that it’s not only about understanding who I am as a player, but also about who I am off-field. I am prepared to give my all no matter where I go. I am ready to compete, ready to play, and hopefully provide a team with a new star quarterback.”

On Wednesday, Williams did not confirm whether the Bears would select him as their first overall pick. However, he felt confident enough to respond to a question about the possibility of playing in a proposed domed stadium in Chicago, intended for use after Soldier Field.

“Should that be the place, I’d be thrilled. If that was the event that was taking place – I’d be thrilled,” Williams conveyed to the press on Wednesday, appearing unaffected by the chilly, blustery conditions at Corner Ballpark in Detroit.

At the event on Wednesday, Williams may have had the most fun out of all the quarterbacks, demonstrating his easygoing nature while interacting with the Special Olympians and even testing his skills as a defensive back. He was also one of the last to leave, staying to answer questions about the Bears and his 2024 draft quarterback peers.

As the process nears its end and the draft approaches swiftly, the conversation will soon shift to the potential of this QB class as professionals. While their destinations may be unclear, Williams expressed his belief that this class could be exceptionally remarkable.

“Williams stated, “This could be truly monumental. It all relies on them and the actions they take wherever they end up after being drafted. Ultimately, it’s about their ability to manage the manageable aspects and elements that could make them outstanding.”

On Thursday, we will discover how and where these quarterback pieces will settle.