Commanders' Jayden Daniels says he is not the savior

The expectations being laid on Jayden Daniels continue to grow.

Television analysts, radio show hosts, and many on social media have been saying Daniels will be a star rookie this season. One giddy fan already has Daniels leading the Commanders to their first playoff win since the 2005 season.

Thursday, Daniels was asked by a member of the local media what he would fall back on with all the expectations. “Just going through it,” replied Daniels. “Just going out there and being myself, know(ing) who God made me. Stay grounded; don’t get too high, don’t get too low.”

Daniels then deflected some of the attention away from himself to the reporter. “At the end of the day, it takes a team to help people out. I can’t go out there and think I am the savior.”

That is refreshing to hear. In this country, we have more than enough athletes who want you to think their team is secondary to themselves, proclaiming themselves All-Pro and All-Star rather than living by the old proverb from 3,000 years ago, “Let another man praise your works.”

Daniels then spoke of playing responsibly and doing his job. “When the plays are out there to be made, make the plays.” He concluded by saying he wants to see himself, the other ten guys on the field, and the entire organization all moving forward in the same direction.

It’s difficult to see our nation so focused on individualism instead of unity in performing for the team. But it is amazing what an organization, a sports team, can accomplish when no one is worried about who gets the credit.

If the quarterback can lead with this mindset, then the team has a much better chance of others following suit. It seems Daniels is himself headed in the right direction.