Commanders RB Austin Ekeler compares Jayden Daniels to Justin Herbert

Washington Commanders running back Austin Ekeler and rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels have something in common.  Both are new to the Commanders roster this year.  Ekeler joins the team after spending seven years with the Los Angeles Chargers.

He was a dual threat for the Chargers, taking handoffs and catching passes from Pro Bowl quarterback Justin Herbert.  Ekeler accumulated over 8,000 all-purpose yards and 69 touchdowns in 103 games with the Chargers.

Ekeler was recently asked to compare Jayden Daniels to Justin Herbert, entering his fifth NFL season.  He noted the early signs of leadership in the huddle, changing protections and routes. Ekeler believes Daniels is "on a good trajectory."

Ekeler is not the only veteran Commanders player praising Daniels.  Super Bowl Champion Zach Ertz is also impressed by his poise and development at a young age.

Daniels scored a touchdown against the Jets in his first preseason game and NFL start.  He is in a friendly competition with veteran Marcus Mariota for the QB1 role.  Though the Commanders have indicated they are in no rush to start him, his progression has been impressive.  Coach Dan Quinn has not named a Week 1 starter yet, but if Daniels continues to perform well in camp and preseason, no one will be surprised if he is in the huddle in Week 1 when the Commanders travel to Tampa Bay for their September 8 game.