Joe Theismann is excited about Jayden Daniels’ potential

While I don't think we will see Aaron Rodgers suit up on Saturday, we will see the Heisman winning rookie from LSU, Jayden Daniels.

For that and more, it was a pleasure to reconnect with former Washington great, Joe Theismann.

Craig: Set the stage for us. It's a completely new organization now with a new owner, new head coach, new GM and a new QB in the form of Jayden Daniels in Washington.

Joe: Let's start with the fans. They're a part of the game that people don't talk about as much. They really needed Jayden, and they got what they needed. The Commanders made the right choice in taking Jayden. I've spent time with Jayden. He'll do fine. There are lots of new things in Washington, but remember he was at ASU before going to LSU and transferring and that coordination change will help him as he's been in different systems. A new environment and new situation are not new for him.

Craig: You mention the fans. I was speaking the other day to a few, and they drew comparisons to Jayden and RG3 in terms of athleticism, but also in terms of just their overall excitement of seeing a quarterback of that caliber. Thoughts on the fan base being energized. They're pretty excited are they not?

Joe: They're very energized. I think the athleticism of those guys is comparable, but their styles are different. Jayden runs with a little more patience, he's not as eager to take off. Jayden has learned with those weapons he had at LSU to be a distributor of the football. When you play quarterback, that's really your job at the end of the day.

Craig: How much would you play him against the Jets?

Joe: I would give him a few series for sure. You don't want to get to the regular season opener in Tampa against the Buccaneers and say this is your first real live experience. I think Jayden being involved in joint practices has been beneficial. It's good to work against different schemes, philosophies and pressures that aren't your own when you face some of these other opponents. I think the coaches have done a great job in bringing him along thus far.

Craig: Let's highlight one of the coaches, offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury. Kliff has coached some of the great quarterbacks. How do you see their relationship becoming a cohesive one?

Joe: They have to complement each other or it's not going to be a successful offense. Jayden has the capacity to comprehend what Kliff wants to do. Kliff is inventive. They need to start the season utilizing their running game, especially the recent addition of Austin Ekeler. I would also put the wide receivers up against anyone in the league because they're dynamic. The pieces are all there for Jayden, but he has to put the puzzle together. I would strive for balance.

Craig: Final question. Brian Kelly is entering year four in Baton Rouge and the SEC just got tougher with the additions of Texas and OU. What do you think about the job he's doing with the Tigers?

Joe: I think he's done an excellent job. Facing Texas and Oklahoma will present different challenges but the biggest thing he'll need to address is replacing Jayden and those wide receivers from a year ago. On the defensive side of the ball, that's always a question. LSU has always been predicated upon speed. Heck, even when we played LSU Tommy Casanova was all about speed. Coach Kelly has a very fast football team. I also like some of the toughness he's brought to LSU, especially with what they're going to face in Texas and Oklahoma.