‘Annoyed’ Jayden Daniels dismisses continuous comparisons to Lamar Jackson: “I want to be known as myself”

Quarterback Jayden Daniels was drafted by the Washington Commanders in the NFL Draft 2024 as the second overall pick.

‘Annoyed’ Jayden Daniels dismisses continuous comparisons to Lamar Jackson: “I want to be known as myself”

Jayden Daniels, Lamar Jackson (images via Imago)

It has been a jolly ride for Jayden Daniels, the 23-year-old rookie quarterback of the Washington Commanders. The Commanders have won four of their last five matches and lead their division with a 4-1 record.

Daniels, alongside the new management and the improved focus on offense are the key reasons behind Washington’s ascent. From recording one of their worst records last year to being touted as a Super Bowl contender, the Commanders have changed their fortunes. Daniels who has recorded 77.1 PCT for 1135 passing yards, with 4 passing and rushing TDs respectively. In the short span, he has been analogized to many players, especially current MVP Lamar Jackson.

YouTube video

The Washington Commanders will be taking on the Baltimore Ravens in the coming week, where Daniels and Jackson will be facing for the first time. Daniels, who is currently ranked higher in ESPN’s Power Rankings is a strong foe for Jackson’s quest to retain the MVP title. Jayden Daniels has been very consistent in his style of play and manages to record statistics comparable to CJ Stroud’s last year’s antics with Houston Texans.

FS Video

Amid all the likenings and comparisons, Daniels is not feeling it. Via John Keim of ESPN.com, he expressed his distaste at being compared to Lamar Jackson. He pointed out they are two different players. He also noted that he wants to be known as Jayden Daniels and not anyone else.

I don’t like when people try to compare me to Lamar and vice versa. We’re two different players.

Jayden Daniels said

Daniels mentioned on Wednesday that while he appreciates “good quarterback play” and admires the reigning NFL MVP, his main focus is on building his own career rather than worrying about comparisons to Jackson.

RELATED
49ers coach Kyle Shanahan gives blunt response on whether NFL apologizes to team after it misses key muffs
Kyle Shanahan, San Francisco 49ers

Lamar Jackson echoed Jayden Daniels’ thoughts on the comparisons

Lamar Jackson also joined in the conversation regarding the comparisons ahead of their match on Saturday at the M&T Bank Stadium. The player echoed thoughts similar to what Daniels had previously noted.

Jayden Daniels, Washington Commanders
Jayden Daniels of the Washington Commanders (Image via SI)

Jackson emphasized that both players are focused on making a name for themselves, rather than drawing comparisons. In his press conference, he also mentioned that he’s been watching the QB and praised his performance.

I agree. [Daniels] is his own player, he’s his own man, at the end of the day. We’re just trying to make a name for ourselves, not anyone else, so I agree with that — definitely.

Lamar Jackson told the reporters

Jackson also discussed the threat posed by Daniels. He pointed out that he, despite being not a huge follower of college football, would often catch Daniels’ games. Jackson mentioned that Daniels is showing the same skillset that earned him the Heisman in college, further solidifying his early success in the NFL.