Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels has said he doesn’t like being compared to his Ravens counterpart Lamar Jackson.
The rookie from Washington, the second overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft, has enjoyed an impressive start to his NFL career, showing off his passing and running skills from under center.
The rookie’s performances have drawn comparisons to Jackson, who is the only quarterback to rush for more yards than Daniels so far this season.
This Sunday, the two will come face to face as the Commanders head to Baltimore looking to extend their excellent start to the season.
But speaking before the game, Daniels insisted: “I don’t like it when people try to compare me to Lamar.”
Commanders star Jayden Daniels has said he doesn’t like being compared to Lamar Jackson.
“I want to be known as Jayden Daniels and not the next so-and-so,” the quarterback said.
The quarterback added: “We’re two different players. I want to be known as Jayden Daniels and not the next so-and-so.
The 23-year-old said his goal is to be “unique” among quarterbacks. But he’s still trying to learn from his counterparts around the league. “I’m not closed-minded,” Daniels added.
The 2023 Heisman Trophy winner revealed that he and Jackson have a relationship that “goes back for some time…kind of like a big brother and little brother.”
Daniels also praised Jackson’s ability and his role in paving the way for quarterbacks like him.
Daniels’ performances have drawn comparisons to those of the two-time NFL MVP.
“I’m a fan of his, how he plays and how he approaches the game. But we’re two different quarterbacks, two different styles,” Daniels said.
“I appreciate what he’s done for the game and what he’s done for African-American quarterbacks.”
Jackson echoed the rookie’s sentiments, telling reporters, “He’s his own player.” He is his own man.
“At the end of the day, we’re trying to make a name for ourselves, not anyone else.”