Introduction

Coming off a stellar 2024 season and winning Offensive Rookie of the Year, quarterback Jayden Daniels looks to pick up right where he left off. Daniels led the Commanders to a 12–5 record, won their first playoff game since 2006, and helped the franchise reach its first NFC Championship appearance since winning the Super Bowl in 1992. During the regular season, Daniels threw for 3,568 yards (16th in the NFL), rushed for 891 yards (2nd among QBs), and totaled 31 touchdowns (9th among QBs). It was one of the best—if not the best—rookie seasons we’ve ever seen from an NFL quarterback. The question now is: can he continue that high level of play in 2025?

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Players and Coaches

Commanders GM Adam Peters understands how critical coaching continuity is for a young quarterback. That’s why he prioritized retaining both head coach Dan Quinn and offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury. This consistency in the coaching staff will allow Daniels to further develop within the same offensive system—and he’ll have some elite new pieces to work with.

Washington made a major move by trading for star left tackle Laremy Tunsil, giving the already mobile Daniels more time in the pocket. They also added a dynamic playmaker in wide receiver Deebo Samuel, adding another weapon to what to what was already a high-powered offense last season.

However, there are concerns about the depth at receiver. These concerns were highlighted when Noah Brown suffered an injury during minicamp on June 10. Compounding that, Terry McLaurin is currently in a contract dispute, which could impact the team’s offensive chemistry early in the season.

Betting Outlook

Oddsmakers appear to be cautious about the Commanders’ breakout 2024 season. Washington enters the 2025 season with a win total set at 9.5 (Over -125; Under +105 per DraftKings)—possibly due to skepticism or the strength of the NFC East.

Looking at individual props, Jayden Daniels’ regular season passing yards total is set at 3,450.5—over 100 yards fewer than his 2024 total. His passing touchdown line is set at 23.5; last season, he finished with 25. As of now, Daniels has the fifth-shortest odds to win MVP (+750 per DraftKings), trailing only Patrick Mahomes, Joe Burrow, Josh Allen, and Lamar Jackson.

Conclusion

Can Jayden Daniels continue his impressive trajectory, or will he fall into the sophomore slump that has tripped up so many second-year QBs—including CJ Stroud? Defensive coordinators now have a full season of NFL tape to study, but Daniels also benefits from returning to a stable system with improved protection and new weapons. If the current wide receiver issues are resolved, there’s no reason to believe Daniels won’t take another step forward in 2025.