Heisman Trophy-winning quarterback Jayden Daniels has officially declared for the 2024 NFL Draft, parting ways with LSU after spending five years in college. The Las Vegas Raiders, currently holding the 12th pick in the upcoming draft, might find Daniels to be a compelling prospect, especially considering his ties to interim head coach Antonio Pierce from their time at Arizona State.
Daniels was with the Sun Devils from 2019 to 2021, during which Pierce served as a recruiting coordinator. Although Pierce primarily coached on the defensive side, his impact on Daniels was evident, with the quarterback acknowledging him during his Heisman Trophy acceptance speech. With Aidan O’Connell’s uncertain status as the starting quarterback for the Raiders in 2024, there’s speculation that they might be in the market for a quarterback, making Daniels a player of interest.
While Daniels’ Heisman Trophy win adds to his allure, history has shown that not all Heisman-winning quarterbacks find success in the NFL. However, Daniels possesses noteworthy qualities that make him an intriguing prospect. His arm talent, long and athletic frame, poise in the pocket, and a smooth throwing motion are all regarded as strengths. Furthermore, Daniels is a dual-threat quarterback, showcasing his abilities by throwing for 3,812 yards and rushing for 1,134 yards in the 2023 season.
Despite his strengths, concerns exist in Daniels’ game, according to former Minnesota Vikings general manager Rick Spielman. Issues such as predetermined throws, forcing passes into coverage for big plays, and accuracy in the red zone have been noted. Daniels’ five years in college and his age of 23 raise questions about his potential for further development.
For the Raiders, the decision to pursue Daniels in the draft may hinge on their evaluation of his ability to address these concerns and become a franchise quarterback. If they believe they can work with Daniels to enhance his accuracy and overall game, he could represent a significant change at the quarterback position, bringing a mobile dimension that the Raiders have been lacking. As the NFL increasingly favors mobile quarterbacks, Daniels’ dual-threat capabilities could align well with the evolving landscape of the league.
Leave a Reply