Case File No. 21: Jayden Daniels

 

Jayden Daniels. Photo Credit: Todd Kirkland/Getty Images.

Today's case file covers Jayden Daniels, a dual-threat quarterback who has people putting LSU not only in the conversation of the CFP, but the BCS National Championship game. Before I continue, visit rdxsports.com and become a part of Team RDX. Get the latest on martial arts and fitness gear at a 10% discount.

Position: Quarterback

HT: 6-3 WT: 200

College: LSU

Class: Senior

Credentials:

Sun Bowl MVP (2019)

Strengths:

-Pocket game is improving

-Can make plays with his arm and feet

-Accurate

-Good arm strength

-Plays well in the clutch

-Bounces back after making mistakes

Weaknesses:

-Lightweight in terms of size

-Tends to rely on his feet too much

-Meeds to develop more patience in the pocket

-Wind-up in his mechanics

Final Analysis:

Jayden is an example of sometimes it's not the player, but the system he's in. Coming from a conservative offense at Arizona State, I wasn't sure if he could run a more aggressive offense that he was coming into at LSU, but not only has he proven he could run it, but his play has developed dramatically.

He's a dual-threat quarterback who can beat you with his arm and feet. For the most part, he has always been an accurate passer, but his overall pocket game is improving, and he's much better when he lets the play develop.

He doesn't have a great arm, but it's strong enough to make the necessary throws. Has a nice deep ball. The moment is not too big for him in the clutch--he calmly led a comeback against Alabama last season.

He has decent height for the position, but he's lightweight as far as size, and this could be an injury concern, particularly if he takes too many hits.

Like most dual-threat quarterbacks, he tends to rely too much on his legs to make plays, and sometimes needs to have more patience in the pocket. This is an area he has admitted he needs to improve, so the self-awareness is there.

Jayden has made strides since transferring to LSU last season. There are still areas of improvement, but he has come a long way since his days at Arizona State. He has full command of the huddle, and the respect of his teammates. As of right now, I still don't see him as a Day One pick in the 2024 NFL draft--maybe the second or third round--but that could change if he fully polishes his play in the pocket.