Things aren't going well for Caleb Williams in Chicago, and that only highlights how excellent Jayden Daniels has been for the Washington Commanders.
The 2024 NFL Draft class was considered one of the greatest rookie groups at the quarterback position in league history.
Heisman Trophy winners Caleb Williams and Jayden Daniels led the group. Others like Drake Maye were seen as high-ceiling draws. Many analysts were torn between which of the three would be the best quarterback from the class.
If the 2024 regular season was a first barometer, Daniels' success has given him an early edge over Williams and Maye. As the second overall pick, Daniels helped lead the Washington Commanders all the way to the NFC Championship game.
Meanwhile, the first overall pick in Williams struggled mightily with the Chicago Bears.
Now, we know just how lucky Washington was to have Daniels fall to their lap instead of the alternative.
Bestselling author Seth Wickersham’s upcoming book, "American Kings: A Biography of the Quarterback'' broke down the situation in Chicago with Williams. Wickersham reported that Williams did everything he could to not get drafted first overall and even had lawyers look over the league's CBA to find a way to go to Minnesota instead.
To have a college quarterback who didn't want to end up in Chicago? Some will argue that reflects badly on Williams' character.
It's a stark contrast to the experiences the Commanders have had with Daniels at this point.
"Jayden's remarkable," Commanders head coach Dan Quinn said on The Rich Eisen Show. "He had a fantastic year, but I wish more people saw all the unseen work that goes into what he does. It's remarkable the way he can grind and get ready.
"I know I speak for the rest of the team when I say we appreciate how hard he prepares. He's been a fantastic teammate. We're very fortunate to have number five taking the snap."
Washington could have had something far different happen to them if Daniels was the selection with the first overall pick to Chicago and they ended up with Williams.
In the end, they'll be very pleased with the signal-caller they do have. ... while Caleb has some cleaning up to do in Chicago.
