Former NFL player and ESPN analyst Damien Woody says Washington Commanders star rookie Jayden Daniels is the best quarterback in the playoffs, ahead of players like Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen. Is this the media being too cute or a case of the stone cold truth?
Damien Woody Says Jayden Daniels Has Been the Best Playoff QB Thus Far
Through his first two playoff games in the NFL, Daniels has thrown for 567 yards, four touchdowns, and no interceptions, as he’s been nearly flawless as a passer. He’s also added 87 yards on the ground, displaying his ability to extend a play and a drive when needed.
This was on full display as the Commanders marched past the Lions in the Divisional Round. His play has been so good that Woody said he is the “best quarterback in the playoffs.”
“He’s (Daniels) the best quarterback in these playoffs right now… I dare anyone to challenge me on that,” said Woody.
"He's the best quarterback in these playoffs right now. … I dare anyone to challenge me on that."@damienwoody on Jayden Daniels 👀 pic.twitter.com/ZhPuRDHVdQ
— Get Up (@GetUpESPN) January 20, 2025
Though Daniels has been amazing, it’s very difficult to place him over proven quarterbacks like Mahomes and Allen who have been among the top players in the NFL for the majority of their careers.
Even Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts has consistently been a winner and made it to the Super Bowl already. He also won the battle in their first matchup in which he played the whole game. This isn’t to say Daniels is the worst quarterback remaining. But he’s certainly the most inexperienced in the playoffs, which one would think eventually plays a factor.
Statistically, Daniels has been the most flashy quarterback through these playoffs, but the Divisional Round showed that it’s not about the amount of yards or touchdowns they scored but the lack of turnovers. Daniels fits that narrative, but Hurts, Allen, and Mahomes all had less than 200 passing yards in their victories.
Their dominance over the Lions was impressive, but Detroit was very injured and their defense simply wasn’t up for the challenge of a playoff environment. It’ll be interesting to see how Daniels plays against one of the league’s best defenses on one of the biggest stages possible.
The remaining veteran quarterbacks have all proven they can win at the biggest level. This will be the time for Daniels to really prove himself. That said, even if he loses, he’s done more than enough to impress the entire NFL and show them that he will be a problem for years to come.
