When was the last time a rookie took the league by storm like Jayden Daniels?
The No. 2 overall pick has become arguably the NFL's No. 1 must-watch player as the Washington Commanders are the league's most surprising team. They’re 4-1 for the first time since 2008 and sit alone atop the NFC East.
Daniels continued his special season in yet another strong outing against the Cleveland Browns. He completed 14-of-25 passes for 238 yards, one touchdown and a pick while running the ball 11 times for 82 yards. It was an impressive performance, yet one of his worst as a pro, which says a ton about how much he's dominated in his young career.
Daniels has completed 101-of-131 attempts (77.1%) for 1,135 yards, four touchdowns and two picks for a 106.3 passer rating. His 77.1 completion percentage is far away from the best in the league, while his 106.3 passer rating ranks fourth among those with at least 100 attempts behind Joe Burrow (113.6), Baker Mayfield (112.2) and Lamar Jackson (106.2).
However, Daniels isn’t only dangerous with his arm but also a major weapon with his legs. He’s carried the ball 57 times for 300 yards and four TDs. He ranks 16th in the league in rushing yards and has the second-most for a quarterback behind Jackson (336). Meanwhile, his four rushing touchdowns are tied for fifth in the league.
Daniels is the first player in NFL history to have 1,000+ passing yards and 250+ rushing yards through his first five games. As a result, he's starting to run away from the rest of the field in the Offensive Rookie of the Year race. He’s -230, which is far ahead of Caleb Williams (+350), Malik Nabers (+450) and Marvin Harrison Jr. (+900).
Daniels has also thrust himself into the MVP conversation with his play through five weeks. One bettor at BetMGM made a $500 bet on Daniels to win MVP after his Monday Night Football win against the Bengals in September.
One bettor @BetMGM put down $500 to win $125K on Jayden Daniels to win MVP (+25000) pic.twitter.com/Ihpb6uZ8px
— Action Network (@ActionNetworkHQ) September 24, 2024
The only rookie to ever win MVP was Jim Brown in 1957, but oddsmakers believe he has more than a puncher’s chance. He’s +1500 to win it, which is tied for sixth with Burrow. Only Patrick Mahomes (+300), Josh Allen (+600), Jackson (+650), and C.J. Stroud (+700) have better odds.
