Jackson State defensive back Robert McDaniel is getting an opportunity in the NFL after the Washington Commanders signed him as an undrafted free agent on April 26, after he was not selected in the 2025 NFL Draft.

McDaniel is currently the only JSU football player to be signed or drafted this year to an NFL team. The graduate senior played one season with the Tigers after transferring from Alcorn State. McDaniel helped JSU win its first Celebration Bowl last season.

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Here’s what McDaniel brings to the Commanders.

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What Robert McDaniel brings to the Washington Commanders in 2025 NFL Draft

The 6-foot-2, 210-pound McDaniel played in his first season at Jackson State after he was named to the 2024 preseason Senior Bowl watch list, as the Tigers’ primary defensive back. His physicality and awareness separate him from other defensive backs. McDaniel is primarily a safety but also played corner during the 2024 season, excelling in both roles, which can help the Commanders. McDaniel displayed a 10-11 broad jump, a 39.5-inch vertical jump, and a 4.55-second 40-yard dash time with 14 bench press reps at JSU’s pro day.

Robert McDaniel highlights, strengths, weaknesses at Jackson State

McDaniel appeared in 13 out of 14 games last season and doubled his number of tackles from his junior year. His strengths are his pure tackling and the lack of separation he creates while defending receivers. His pressure at the line of scrimmage is at an elite level, recording double-digit tackles for loss. His weaknesses are his quick acceleration and speed in the open field, which are crucial at the NFL level.

Robert McDaniel stats with Jackson State

2024: 55 tackles, 34 solo, 10 tackles for loss, 4.5 sacks, five pass breakups, three interceptions, two forced fumbles.

Robert McDaniel NFL comparison

McDaniel’s size and athleticism can be compared to those of current NFL defensive backs, such as Denver Broncos’ Pat Surtain II or Seattle Seahawks’ Riq Woolen.

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Michael Chavez covers high school sports, among others, for the Clarion Ledger. Email him at mchavez@gannett.com or reach out to him on X, formerly Twitter @MikeSChavez.

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Washington Commanders sign Robert McDaniel as UDFA: Pros, cons of signee