The Washington Commanders and rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels find themselves in a challenging position after suffering their third consecutive loss, this time at the hands of the Dallas Cowboys, extending their losing streak.
Despite a promising start to the season, the Commanders’ campaign appears to be teetering, as their record slips to 7-5 ahead of a critical matchup with the Tennessee Titans on Sunday. The team’s offensive struggles have been apparent, averaging just over 23 points in their last three games compared to more than 31 points in their first nine contests, raising concerns about their recent form.
Much of the downturn coincides with a decline in performance from Daniels, the second overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. Over the past three weeks, his stats have dropped across the board, including lower completion rates, fewer yards per attempt, touchdowns, and passer rating, along with three interceptions.
When asked about hitting the “rookie wall” during a press conference ahead of the Titans game, Daniels acknowledged the adjustment to the longer NFL season:
“I mean, I don’t know. Obviously, it’s longer, so it’s different. It’s just stuff to get used to. Usually, right now in college, the season’s about over, but here, we’re just getting into the second half. So, I mean, that’s different, but I don’t really know the definition of a rookie wall. I just know the NFL season is longer than college.”
Daniels admitted he’s learning as he goes, relying on advice from players who’ve been in his shoes:
“I mean, just learn on the fly. Learn from people that’ve been in my position before.”
The concept of the rookie wall—where first-year players often experience a mid-to-late season slump as they adjust to the physical and mental demands of the NFL—could partially explain Daniels’ struggles. However, some critics point to offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury’s historical tendency for teams to fade as seasons progress as another potential factor. The Commanders will need to address these issues as they enter the critical stretch of their schedule.
Washington faces the Titans next, followed by the New Orleans Saints, Atlanta Falcons, and pivotal divisional matchups against the Eagles and Cowboys. Despite having a bye week before their recent loss to Dallas, the anticipated benefits of the break seemed minimal.
Speaking about the bye week, Daniels had said:
“I’m good. The mini bye, I think it just helps with everything, just to reset your mind and get ready for the second half of the season,” emphasizing the importance of rest and mental preparation.
As the Commanders look to turn things around, they’ll need strong performances from Daniels and solutions to their offensive inconsistencies to remain in playoff contention.
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