Why Dan Quinn Should Draft Drake Maye Over Jayden Daniels? NFL Insider Discusses Washington Commanders’ 2nd Overall Pick

Published 04/01/2024, 5:54 AM EDT

Dan Quinn’s Washington Commanders are caught between a rock and a hard place as the 2024 NFL Draft frenzy kicks into high gear. With the second overall pick, they have a franchise-altering decision to make – anoint either Drake Maye or Jayden Daniels as their new field general.

Even though the comparison between the two QBs is reaching a stage where “We are splitting hairs”, according to NFL draft analyst Jordan Reid, it comes down to a better scheme fit. “If we’re strictly talking about long-term and who fits better in offensive coordinator Cliff Kingsbury’s system, I think it’s Drake Maye just because of his experience in the air raid where he’s been able to do over the past two seasons.”

“And the flashes that he has shown, I think it translates better into what Washington wants to do offensively. That’s why I have Drake Maye with a slight edge over Jayden Daniels right now.” The battle lines are drawn. Maye’s experience might seamlessly mesh with Kingsbury’s system. But don’t underestimate Jayden Daniels. The LSU phenom lit up the college ranks in 2023.

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The initial part of his career at Arizona State didn’t work out, and that’s a reason why many discount his talents. However, at LSU, his career took off. He was great in 2022 and 2023. Further, he is a good runner and has a terrific arm. Many consider him the best deep-ball thrower in the current draft.

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As the Commanders weigh their franchise QB options, the debate rages among the fanbase. Maye’s prowess gives him an edge as a more conventional upgrade under center. But Daniels’ unique skill set offers an electrifying X-factor that could open another dimension of Kingsbury’s offense.

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Which quarterback will keep the perfect tempo for Washington Commanders’ air raid rhythm?

Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury has a quarterback masterpiece in mind for the Washington Commanders. But which young prodigy will he hand-pick to star in his aerial exhibition? He’s surely evaluating whose skills and mentality are the perfect opening act for his air raid symphony.

Maye brings an inherent advantage, having run the air raid for two seasons in North Carolina. The gunslinger displayed a keen feel for spreading the field, quickly progressing through his reads, and racking up 8,018 yards and 63 touchdowns.

Though Daniels operated a different scheme at LSU, his jaw-dropping dual-threat ability gives Kingsbury’s offense another dimension. The athletic freak frequently turned broken plays into highlights, showing he can launch dimes on the move or gash defenses with his legs. However, he also has a history of getting injured during games, and this results in him getting benched.

While he may lack Maye’s air raid reps, Daniels could bring an electrifying improv element that naturally vibes with Kingsbury’s aggressive mentality. As the Commanders mull over which quarterback bells and whistles align best, the decision will shape their offensive identity for years to come. Which QB should the team go ahead with?

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Written by:

Sanu Abraham is an NFL writer at EssentiallySports. As a passionate football fan, he brings fresh perspectives and new ideas to the coverage of the sport and its many exciting personalities. He seeks to write lively and engaging articles that play to his expertise.

Edited by:

Mallika Singh