Jayden Daniels and C.J. Stroud have more in common than many might assume at first glance. While their playstyles are dramatically different, the two have been instrumental in the revival of their respective franchises. Both were the second quarterbacks taken off the board in their respective drafts and went on to have historic seasons.
With Stroud conceding the all-time rookie QB race to Daniels, the Washington Commanders’ sensation had to show some love back to his NFL senior.
Jayden Daniels Reveals Surprising Inspiration From C.J. Stroud
Both Stroud and Daniels came into despondent franchises that had been terrible for years on end. But, in a single season, they changed their entire trajectories, leading them to the playoffs thanks to some epic clutch-time moments.
While Stroud was more of a pure passer, Daniels relied on his dual-threat capabilities to make life a nightmare for opposing defenses. In the playoffs, too, they got off to electric starts, winning their first-round matchups.
However, where Daniels went a step beyond was beating his conference’s No. 1 seed en route to a Conference Championship appearance. For many, it elevated his season into the greatest for a rookie quarterback ever. Included in that “many” was Stroud.
C.J. Stroud will be rooting for the Commanders in the NFC Championship 😤 pic.twitter.com/lDI8NcfU2X
— Yahoo Sports (@YahooSports) January 20, 2025
Calling it “the best rookie year of all time”, Stroud added, “I don’t root for many other teams, but I’m rooting for my boy. I’m rooting for the Commanders.” But beyond the NFL, the two also share a different commonality, one which Daniels referred to on his Instagram when responding to Stroud’s proclamation.
“Much love brudda…inspiring everybody back home.”
Stroud hails from Rucha Cucamonga, California, whereas Daniels was brought up nearby in Fontana. Stroud spoke about that connection as well, speaking about the hardships Daniels had to face growing up.
“As a person, he ain’t had it easy. Just his background, losing his grandparents, and the city that he’s from, San Bernardino. It’s not an easy place to be brought up in. So for him to beat the odds man and do what he’s doing, man I’m so happy and proud of that dude.”
Daniels is ready to square off against a Philadelphia Eagles team that has been among the best in the league the entire season. As it is, it’s going to be a tall task for Daniels and Co.
However, Daniels has made it a mission to defy the odds, both in life and on the football field. So, we know he’s going to be ready with a fellow Californian rooting for him.
