PITTSBURGH – Washington Commanders rookie sensation quarterback Jayden Daniels has turned heads this season, completing 163 of 228 pass attempts for 1,945 yards and nine touchdowns, with just two interceptions, and a quarterback rating of 106.7. He’s also racked up 459 yards on the ground and scored four touchdowns. Unless something unforeseen happens, Daniels will win NFL Rookie of the Year.
“It doesn’t matter what tape you put on. His mobility is a major factor … it is something to be reckoned with,” Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin said of Daniels during his weekly Tuesday press conference.
The Steelers are not treating Daniels like he’s any other rookie. They’re well-aware that he brings a different dimension.
“All rookie quarterbacks are not the same, he had an extended body of work at two major universities,” Tomlin said of Daniels, who transferred from Arizona State to LSU.
While Daniels has been impressive this season, Tomlin is 25-6 against rookie QBs during his tenure as Pittsburgh’s head coach. Daniels will be the second rookie quarterback to face the Steelers this season. The first was Bo Nix in Week 2, who the Steelers deconstructed in a 13-6 win at Mile High. Daniels certainly will be a tougher challenge.
“I think he just has confidence,” Steelers linebacker Patrick Queen said. “I think they are doing the right things with him, letting him be able to take control of the offense and take what he sees. I think he does a great job of getting the ball out to the guys and letting the guys make plays. When he has the ball in his hands, and it’s his turn to make plays, he’s making plays.
“I’ve got the utmost respect for that guy. He’s been taking some shots, but he’s getting back up and playing football and going after them again. So, he’s playing some great football and it’s just like I said, I have the utmost respect for him.”
In points per drive, the Commanders rank first in the NFL. Washington is also third in the NFL in scoring (29.5 points per game), third in total offense (396 yards per game) and third in rushing (166 yards). New offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury has had a profound impact on the unit.
In Week 8, Daniels threw a 52-yard game-winning Hail Mary touchdown pass to Noah Brown to defeat the Chicago Bears, 18-15. Daniels’ pass traveled 65.9 yards in the air. “Just throw the ball up, give my guys a shot. I didn’t see anything,” Daniels said.
The vibes in Washington D.C. are certainly different than in years past. Sunday’s game will be the Steelers toughest challenge yet, especially at the quarterback position.
“I know the type of guy that he is and that’s leading to his success and his belief,” Queen said of Daniels. “And he’s just doing everything right now. He’s seeing the field, he’s getting the ball to his playmakers, letting them make plays. And he got the ball in his hands. He’s making plays as well. He’s got the utmost confidence right now and you got to have respect for that.”
Steelers cornerback James Pierre spent time with the Commanders this offseason. He saw firsthand how special Daniels is.
“He’s not afraid to throw the ball. Very good competitor. Something I’ve never seen from a (rookie quarterback) to be honest,” Pierre said.
Pierre sees Lamar Jackson-like traits in Daniels.
“Just kind of like similar to (Jackson). He has the confidence to go get it,” he said.
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Alan Saunders provided reporting from Pittsburgh.