Quarterback Competition Heats up for Commanders

Commanders Quarterback Competition

There were six quarterbacks drafted in the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft, and so far, only one has officially been named Week 1 starter: Caleb Williams. The others could secure the role with strong performances in training camp, which is what No. 2 overall pick Jayden Daniels is hoping to do.

Daniels will be competing with Marcus Mariota, who the Commanders signed in the offseason on a one-year, $6 million deal. Mariota is entering his 10th season in the NFL and was the Falcons' starting quarterback in 2022 before getting benched. He was traded to the Eagles, where he served as a backup in 2023, playing in just three games.

Commanders head coach Dan Quinn didn't specify how he plans to divvy up reps between the rookie and the veteran, but he did say the competition is expected to continue through preseason games.

Washington drafted Daniels to be its franchise quarterback, so there's no doubt they'd love to see him ready to go in Week 1. However, rushing a rookie QB onto the field before he's ready is a mistake several organizations have made in the past, and it's one the Commanders hope to avoid. That said, with the stats that Daniels put up last year, it would be surprising to see anyone other than him as the Week 1 starter.

The 2023 Heisman Trophy winner threw for 3,812 yards and 40 touchdowns with just four interceptions at LSU last season. He also tallied 1,134 yards on the ground with 10 rushing touchdowns.

The Commanders also completely overhauled their roster this offseason, so it's not like Mariota is any more familiar with this offense or personnel than Daniels is. Washington replaced nearly half of its roster from its 4-13 season in 2023 and brought in new offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury when Quinn took over the reins.

Commanders Win Total

With a new era beginning in Washington, there's reason to be optimistic heading into the season. The Commanders' win total is set at 6.5 this season and is juiced to the over at -130 on DraftKings.

Despite being favored in only three games, their schedule is favorable with non-division matchups against the NFC South, the Cardinals, and the Giants. Overall, they are just outside the top 10 when it comes to the league's easiest schedules.

Offensive additions of Zach Ertz, Austin Ekeler, and Luke McCaffrey, who was added through the draft, should make things easier for Daniels as he adjusts to NFL life. The offensive line, which was terrible last season, also received a few upgrades with Nick Allegretti and Tyler Biadasz joining the squad. Last year's QB, Sam Howell, didn't receive any help from the O-line, taking a league-leading 64 sacks and throwing 21 interceptions.

The defensive side of the ball will look completely different with seven new players being added. Quinn will also be calling plays on that side of the ball, which will be an upgrade from last year's DC, Jack Del Rio.

A lot has to go right for the Commanders to go over their win total this season, but if Daniels turns out to be as good as advertised, I think Washington fans can expect to see at least seven wins in 2024.