Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels was named the Pepsi Zero Sugar Rookie of the Year on Thursday, surprising no one who followed the dual-threat passer during his dynamic first season.
The award, a culmination of Daniels’ record 11 Rookie of the Week honors, is likely a primer for more hardware. The league’s official award, the AP Offensive Rookie of the Year, will be handed out at the NFL Honors ceremony on Thursday night in New Orleans.
Daniels is the overwhelming favorite for the official, ahead of Las Vegas Raiders tight end Brock Bower, Denver Broncos quarterback Bo Nix, Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving, New York Giants receiver Malik Nabers and Jacksonville Jaguars receiver Brian Thomas Jr.
“Thank you to all the fans who took the time to vote for me all season,” Daniels said after thanking his teammates, coaches and family. “It is truly a privilege to play for you and I can’t wait to see everyone again in 2025!”
Daniels tied an NFL rookie record with 14 wins between the regular season and playoffs while setting a new high-water mark for rushing yards by a rookie quarterback.
His performance led the Commanders to an unexpected appearance in the NFC championship game, capping a dramatic turnaround from a 4-13 record in the 2023 season.
• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.
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