Washington head coach Dan Quinn named Jayden Daniels, linebacker Bobby Wagner and safety Jermey Reaves as captains for the Commanders‘ season opener against the New York Giants on Sunday.
“These guys represent the standard, who we stand for in our locker room,” Quinn said. “So many remarkable examples of leadership from them. They lift others up, and they speak up in the times that leaders do.”
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Daniels was the captain for the Week 17 game against the Atlanta Falcons last season, a game in which he led the Commanders to an overtime win with a touchdown pass to tight end Zach Ertz. The win secured a playoff berth for Washington.
“I think we have all seen this pose. Part of leading is lifting the others around you and finding ways to do that. Certainly, the other guys who are captains have demonstrated that at such a high level that how could it not work out?” Quinn chuckled.
He praised the leadership of Wagner and Reaves. Quinn prides himself on setting an example for his entire group and giving something to live up to.
Now, the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year will have a chance to take the reins of his relatively veteran team in just his second year in the league.
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“Some of it comes from just the work. Other players are watching; they see that. They see how much somebody puts into something if they take notice.”
Daniels’ work ethic and leadership ability were part of the reason he was drafted No. 2 overall in 2024, and proceeded to throw for 3,568 yards and 25 touchdowns, leading the Commanders to their first postseason win in 20 years.
Now, Washington awaits year two of the Jayden Daniels era, with added weapons in its receiver room and a signal caller who has earned the title of captain.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Commanders name Daniels, Wagner and Reaves, Week 1 team captains