Following Super Bowl LVIII and with the scouting combine on the horizon, it is time for everyone to analyze the 2024 draft prospects with a more discerning eye. In the case of Jayden Daniels, the LSU quarterback, the outlook is positive from all angles. Daniels, who previously played for Arizona State, had an exceptional season with the Tigers, winning the Heisman Trophy. He completed 236 out of 332 passes for 3,811 yards, 40 touchdowns, four interceptions, and a passer rating of 143.7. With a completion rate of over 70% and an average yards per attempt of over 10.0, along with a touchdown to interception ratio of 10:1, there are many impressive aspects to his performance.
Analyzing the tape of Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels
Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 210 pounds, Daniels had 35 completions of 20 or more air yards in 55 attempts, resulting in 1,347 yards, 22 touchdowns, no interceptions, and a passer rating of 146.8. Under pressure, he completed 25 of 50 passes for 557 yards, five touchdowns, no interceptions, and a passer rating of 123.5. As a runner, Daniels showcased his skills with 1,250 yards and 10 touchdowns on just 65 carries, averaging an impressive 10.4 yards per carry.
Daniels displayed exceptional abilities throughout the season, making him a highly regarded first-round prospect. The evidence from the tape supports this assessment. Daniels should be considered on par with or even above Caleb Williams and Drake Maye as a potential franchise quarterback.
Jayden Daniels, QB, LSU
POSITIVES
– Accounted for 103 explosive plays last season. His opponents struggle to find ways to stop him.
– Demonstrated exceptional deep throwing skills, especially with deep fade throws.
– Showed significant improvement as a passer in 2023.
– Capable of reading the entire field, transitioning smoothly from potential touchdowns to safer options.
– Most of his 17 explosive runs were by design, showcasing his ability to execute planned plays rather than relying solely on improvisation.
NEGATIVES
– Has a tendency to take unnecessary hits in the open field, reminiscent of Wile E. Coyote. Could benefit from a ju-jitsu trainer like Tua.
– Occasionally experiences delays in decision-making, resulting in inaccurate throws, particularly in quick game situations.
– Exhibits an additional hesitation when indecisive, allowing coverage to converge. Should aim to consistently throw his receivers open.
Given his skill set, Daniels deserves a first-round grade. While this evaluation is subjective, there are few prospects in the 2024 draft class that a quarterback coach would prefer to have in their facility.
According to the Source touchdownwire.usatoday.com