Commanders QB Embraces the Challenges of the Media Attention

Jayden Daniels, the rising quarterback for the Washington Commanders, mastered the art of navigating media while maintaining his focus on the field.

Joanne Coley

Updated: Oct 17, 2024 / 02:00 PM EDT

Oct 6, 2024; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) passes a ball during warmup prior to the game against the Cleveland Browns at NorthWest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images | Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

Jayden Daniels, the rising quarterback for the Washington Commanders, is no stranger to media attention and the constant scrutiny that comes with being in the spotlight.

His transition from LSU to the NFL has been a journey filled with both opportunities and challenges. For the Commanders rookie, the spotlight has been a constant companion, and through it all, he has developed a resilience that enables him to navigate the headlines and thrive under media pressure.

Oct 6, 2024; Landover, Maryland, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) passes a ball during warmup prior to the game against the Cleveland Browns at NorthWest Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images | Geoff Burke-Imagn Images

So when did the noise of public opinion first hit home for the Washington quarterback? “Yeah, I would say kind of last year, around this time, maybe later in the year. You just go on social media. It wasn't to the magnitude that the coverage the NFL gets, but you just go on the media, you go anywhere, you scroll, you see people talking about you, good or bad, regardless.”

For Daniels, it became normal. “Last year, I was exposed to that, and then you go through pre-draft, you go through everything. You could turn on the TV and people could be talking about you. It's kind of awkward to see people talk about you. I don't really like it, so I kind of try to stay away from that. But it's kind of normal to me now.”

While Daniels might not be the biggest fan of hearing what folks have to say about him, he’s definitely figured out how to deal with it. His strategy is to tune out the noise and zero in on what really matters: his performance on the field.

As Week 7 approaches against the Carolina Panthers, Daniels’ ability to block out the distractions, and stay focused has proven effective, especially considering the accolades and history he made in the first four weeks of the season.

His ability to roll with the punches, even when it’s uncomfortable, speaks volumes about his mental strength, proving that resilience is just as important as talent for succeeding in the NFL.