Can Commanders' Jayden Daniels Climb NFC East Quarterback Rankings?

Ranking quarterbacks in the NFC East is always a challenge, especially with the unique talents and potential player brings to the table. As the season kicks off, these rankings are based on the previous season/performances but remain fluid and subject to change as the season unfolds.

For the Washington Commanders , rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has a chance to quickly climb these rankings as he prepares for his NFL debut against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 1.

1. Dak Prescott, Dallas Cowboys

Dak Prescott sits atop the NFC East quarterback rankings, coming off an impressive 2023 season where he threw for 4,516 yards, 36 touchdowns, and only nine interceptions. Prescott’s performance in the regular season helped lead the Cowboys to a 12-5 record, earning him the runner-up position for the 2023 MVP award. With a consistent track record, Prescott remains the top choice in this division.

2. Jalen Hurts, Philadelphia Eagles

Following closely is Jalen Hurts of the Philadelphia Eagles, who displayed his dual-threat capabilities in 2023 with career highs in both passing (3,858 yards and 23 touchdowns) and rushing (605 yards and 15 touchdowns). However, Hurts also threw 15 interceptions and struggled in the second half of the season, with the Eagles losing five of their last six games. Reducing turnovers will be key for Hurts to maintain his position in these rankings.

3. Daniel Jones, New York Giants

Daniel Jones currently holds the third spot, facing a challenging road back from an ACL tear that limited him to six games in 2023. With a lackluster preseason showing, Jones has much to prove if he wants to secure his position in a competitive division.

4. Jayden Daniels, Washington Commanders

Jayden Daniels, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner, enters the rankings at fourth, but his dynamic playmaking ability gives him a chance to move up quickly. While still unproven at the professional level, Daniels has shown promise in the preseason with his dual-threat skills, bringing new excitement to a Commanders' offense that has lacked a true spark in recent years.

Related: Commanders' Jayden Daniels Favorite For Offensive Rookie of the Year?

The Commanders are preparing for a critical Week 1 matchup against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers , and all eyes will be on how Daniels performs in his NFL debut. The Commanders believe their new-look offense, under Daniels' leadership, can make a statement against Tampa Bay’s experienced roster. While the Buccaneers boast proven talent like Baker Mayfield, Mike Evans, and Chris Godwin, the Commanders are confident in their own playmakers and are eager to test their offense against a solid opponent.

Daniels' ability to elevate the offense and prove his worth early on will be crucial, especially as the Commanders face a team that has already established itself as a contender in the NFC South. The upcoming game will provide an early indicator of how the rookie can fare against tough NFL defenses and whether he can climb the ranks among the NFC East quarterbacks.