NFL Draft 2024 Rumors: Jayden Daniels Believed to Have Tools to Start Right Away

Doric SamFebruary 29, 2024

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As he prepares for the 2024 NFL draft, LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels is reportedly being viewed as a prospect who can be thrust into action on day one at the professional level.

According to The Athletic’s Chad Graff and Jeff Howe, while the 2023 Heisman Trophy winner still has areas to improve, “the belief is Daniels has enough tools to start right away while continuing to round out his game.”

Daniels is considered one of the top quarterback prospects in this year’s draft class alongside USC’s Caleb Williams and North Carolina’s Drake Maye. Graff and Howe noted that league executives said Daniels “doesn’t have the same arm strength as Williams or Maye, and he still has room to grow with his anticipation as a passer.” However, “his ability to create plays with his legs or buy time and make throws off schedule” sets him apart from the other prospects.

Daniels earned the 2023 Heisman Trophy after he put forth a dominant campaign for LSU in which he threw for 3,812 yards, 40 touchdowns and just four interceptions while completing 72.2 percent of his passes and added 1,134 rushing yards with 10 more touchdowns.

Daniels has to get stronger and grow his 210-pound frame in order to withstand the physicality of the NFL, but it’s clear that he has the skills to be successful in the right situation.

Rookie quarterbacks who start from day one have seen varying degrees of success. 2023 No. 1 pick Bryce Young struggled mightily in his first year with the Carolina Panthers, while No. 2 pick C.J. Stroud dazzled for the Houston Texans and went on to be named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year.

Either end of the spectrum will be a possibility for Daniels, but the team that drafts him is certainly hoping he will be ready to contribute right away.