The signing of quarterback Marcus Mariota by the Washington Commanders in March raised speculation that the team was leaning towards choosing LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels with the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft. Despite Mariota’s past success, he joined Washington after wearing the No. 8 jersey was already taken by starting running back Brian Robinson Jr.
Mariota made history by choosing to wear the No. 0 jersey, becoming the first quarterback in NFL history to do so. He explained that the number serves as a reminder of his longevity in the league and the doubts he faces as he enters his tenth year.
The experience and journey of Mariota make him a suitable mentor for Daniels, given that he has been in similar shoes before. Washington received positive reports on Mariota from offensive assistant Brian Johnson, who coached him while with the Philadelphia Eagles last season. Commanders’ fans are eager to see Daniels take the field and potentially lead the team to success at the quarterback position, bringing hope for a brighter future for the franchise.