Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels has made a strong case as the presumptive rookie of the year, showcasing his composure and poise on the field. The 23-year-old’s ability to remain calm under pressure has been a defining characteristic throughout the season.
Coach Dan Quinn describes Daniels as “iced up” when in command, highlighting his stoic nature. This trait is rooted in his upbringing, where his parents taught him to control his emotions and lead with poise. His friends and teammates credit his mother, Regina Jackson, and quarterback skills coach, Ryan Porter, for instilling this quality.
Daniels’s past experiences have helped shape his demeanor. He has spoken about a flag football game where he cried after being yelled at by his dad, but learned to channel those emotions into focus. This mindset has allowed him to excel in high-pressure situations, including last week’s fourth-and-two conversion that sparked joy and swagger among teammates.
Daniels’s poise extends beyond the field, with friends remarking on his ability to compartmentalize and move on from setbacks. As one teammate put it, “I wish I was as mentally tough as Jayden.” His leadership qualities have led some to compare him to fellow young quarterbacks like Jalen Hurts and Josh Allen.
With the Commanders’ playoff run underway, Daniels’s unwavering poise will undoubtedly be a key factor in their success.
Source: https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2025/01/16/jayden-daniels-cold-blooded