The Washington Commanders opened the 2024 preseason with a highway matchup in opposition to the Jets and misplaced, 20-17. Listed here are 5 takeaways from the matchup.

1. Jayden Daniels appears to be like as marketed.

Jayden Daniels’ first move was about as uneventful as one may think about. It was supposed for Austin Ekeler on a display however zoomed over the working again’s head, mentioning third-and-6.

On the following play, nonetheless, Daniels confirmed a glimpse of why the Commanders took him No. 2 general. He laid out a move to Dyami Brown deep downfield on the suitable sideline, regardless of the defensive again offering tight protection, the window was simply sufficient for Brown to come back down with the catch.

The 42-yard reception — one of many longest for the day from the Commanders — was the spotlight of the 11-play, 70-yard scoring drive, however it was only one side of how spectacular Daniels seemed in his first little bit of preseason motion. Though the collection consisted of eight runs, Daniels seemed calm within the backfield as he directed the offense. He even made the test on the line of scrimmage that led to Brown’s explosive play.

And with the ball on the 3-yard line on third down, Daniels confirmed the opposite a part of his recreation that has the staff excited: his skill to make performs along with his legs. He took a read-option to the suitable and had nearly no opposition as he ran for the tip zone.

Daniels completed the day finishing 2-of-3 passes for 45 yards, together with a three-yard completion by Terry McLaurin. He solely had one drive, however the 11 performs he was on the sector had been greater than sufficient to get followers excited in regards to the rookie.