Washington Commanders rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels had a hilarious response over his habit of smiling whenever he gets hit by an opposing player.
Throughout his historic rookie season, fans have noticed that Jayden Daniels frequently smiles after getting hit or sacked. And yet, this is the same man who barely flashed a smile after his Commanders defeated the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Zane Gonzalez’s last-second field goal in the Wild Card Round.
Having led Washington to a stunning 45-31 victory over the top-seeded Detroit Lions in the Divisional Round, Daniels will next try to guide his team to victory over the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship Game.
With a win, Washington would reach the Super Bowl for the first time in 33 years.
Speaking to reporters ahead of conference championship weekend, the 24-year-old quarterback was asked why he loves to smile at his teammates or opposing players after taking a hit.
“It’s football, you gonna get hit. I’m not hurt. If somebody gets a good hit on me, man it’s a good hit and move on to next play,” Daniels said.
Jayden Daniels on why he smiles after taking hits:
— brandon (@JayDanielsMVP) January 22, 2025
“It’s football, you gonna get hit. I’m not hurt. If somebody gets a good hit on me, man it’s a good hit and move on to next play”. pic.twitter.com/dheSOxAPE6
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Point taken.
Here’s hoping Jayden Daniels can continue that positive energy and attitude against the Eagles, who boast one of the league’s best front sevens led by Jalen Carter, Bryce Huff, Nolan Smith and Josh Sweat.
Jayden Daniels Has Single-Handedly Rescued The Commanders
Washington won just two playoff games in Dan Snyder’s 24 years as the owner, with the last one coming in the 2005 Wild Card Round. In one season alone, Daniels has matched that playoff win total.
The Commanders never finished better than 10-6 under Snyder, yet they went 12-5 in Daniels’ rookie year for their best regular-season record since 1991.
Daniels has immediately brought new life to the Commanders and their long-suffering fanbase. Snyder’s departure was a start, but the selection of Daniels with the No. 2 pick in 2024 was the catalyst to get things going under new owner Josh Harris.
