Kristina Roberts
The Washington Commanders were one of the most surprising teams in the 2024 NFL season, and a huge part of their success was because of their rookie quarterback, Jayden Daniels. The young star, who played college football at LSU, quickly became one of the most exciting players in the league. He led the Commanders to a 12-5 record and even took them all the way to the NFC Championship game. On top of that, he won the Offensive Rookie of the Year award, proving just how talented he is.
Now, as Daniels prepares for his second season, expectations are even higher. The Commanders have given him more weapons to work with, including star wide receiver Deebo Samuel and veteran left tackle Laremy Tunsil, a five-time Pro Bowler. With these additions, many believe Daniels could be even better in 2025. But what has really shocked fans and analysts is where CBS Sports ranked him in their latest quarterback rankings.
According to CBS Sports, Jayden Daniels is the number one quarterback in the NFL right now. Yes, you read that right—above big names like Josh Allen, Lamar Jackson, Joe Burrow, Jalen Hurts, and even Patrick Mahomes. This ranking has surprised many, especially since Daniels has only played one season.
“Recency bias? Sure,” CBS Sports writes. “But you’d be hard-pressed to find an NFL team that wouldn’t hurry to claim him as its quarterback of the present and future, contenders included. He was simply unflappable for much of his dynamic debut, which ended on the doorstep of the Super Bowl. A second-year dip is possible, but who says Daniels won’t keep climbing with some added veteran help in D.C.?”
Even the most loyal Commanders fans might find it hard to believe that their young quarterback is already being called the best in the league. After all, players like Mahomes and Allen have been dominating for years, while Daniels is just getting started. But CBS Sports seems to believe that his incredible rookie season was no fluke and that he has what it takes to stay at the top.
Of course, repeating his success won’t be easy. The NFL is a tough league, and defenses will now have a full year of film on Daniels, meaning they’ll study his weaknesses and try to stop him. Many rookie quarterbacks struggle in their second year because teams figure out how to defend against them. This is known as the “sophomore slump,” and it’s something Daniels will have to avoid if he wants to prove he truly is the best.
However, if anyone can do it, it might be Jayden Daniels. His speed, accuracy, and ability to stay calm under pressure were all on display last season. He didn’t just rely on his legs like some young quarterbacks—he also made smart throws and led his team like a veteran. If he continues to improve and uses his new teammates wisely, there’s no telling how far he can go.
If the Commanders make another deep playoff run—or even reach the Super Bowl—then maybe this ranking won’t seem so surprising by the end of the season. Right now, though, it’s a bold take that has everyone talking. Some people agree, saying that Daniels’ talent is too great to ignore. Others think it’s too early to put him above proven superstars.
One thing is certain: all eyes will be on Jayden Daniels in 2025. Can he live up to the hype? Can he silence the doubters and prove he deserves to be called the best quarterback in football? Only time will tell, but one thing is clear—the Commanders have a special player leading their team, and the future looks very bright.
For now, fans should enjoy the ride and watch as Daniels continues to grow. Whether he stays at the top of the rankings or not, his journey will be exciting to follow. And if he keeps playing the way he did last season, the debate about who the best quarterback is might not be much of a debate at all.
The NFL is always full of surprises, and Jayden Daniels is proof of that. From a rookie sensation to potentially the best quarterback in the league in just one year—his story is just beginning. The Commanders have found their leader, and if CBS Sports is right, the rest of the league should be very worried.
So, what do you think? Is Jayden Daniels really the best quarterback in the NFL, or is it too soon to say? One thing’s for sure—this debate isn’t going away anytime soon. Let’s see what the new season brings!
