For his part, Daniels previously said that the decision on which quarterback starts Week 1 is “above” him. On Wednesday, Daniels was asked how the star-quarterback treatment has been since landing in D.C., but Daniels shut that notion down quickly.
“I mean, I ain’t a star quarterback yet,” he said. “I got a long way to go. I’m a rookie, to answer that.”
The Commanders also have journeyman Jeff Driskel and undrafted rookie Sam Hartman on the roster, but it would be a shock if anyone but Mariota or Daniels is under center on the opening Sunday against the Buccaneers in Tampa. Even recent history suggests Daniels starting is likely. The last QB taken first or second overall not to start in Week 1 was Mitchell Trubisky with the Bears back in 2018.
Mariota, 30, appeared in three games for the Eagles last season, completing 15 of 23 passes (65.2%) for 164 yards, one touchdown and one interception. He also ran for 52 yards on eight carries. Mariota started 13 games for the Falcons in 2022, throwing for 2,219 yards, 15 TDs and nine interceptions. Those are the only games he’s started in the NFL since leaving the Titans after the 2019 season.
Quinn said he really likes the dynamic of the QB competition and believes Mariota — who coincidentally also was a former No. 2 overall pick — can help mentor Daniels. But Quinn also praised the rookie’s demeanor and confidence, as well as his humility, striking the veteran coach as being an unusual characteristic for a younger player.
“He’s got a swagger to him,” Quinn said. “He really has a very firm handle on the things that we’re doing, but he also has the humility of a young player.
“And so I thought, what a cool combination to have this presence as an older player, but yet the humility of the new and younger player, knowing that he has a lot to prove. … What a rare and really cool combination that is.”
Daniels appears to have what it takes — as well as every chance — to win the starting job during training camp. The Commanders likely would love nothing more than for the rookie to go win the job, and if he continues to earn praise such as this when training camp rolls around, that decision might only be a matter of time.