The Washington Commanders finally got their first win of the PML season, defeating the Tennessee Titans 31-24 — and they can thank rookie quarterback Jalon Daniels for it.
Coming into the game, Washington was winless and searching for answers on offense. Starting quarterback Jayden Daniels had struggled to find rhythm through the first two weeks, and when he exited midway through the second quarter, it looked like the team might be headed for another long day.
Then Jalon Daniels took the field — and everything changed.
A Rookie Moment That Didn’t Feel Like One
Jalon Daniels, a mid-round pick known more for his mobility than his polish, entered the game with little preparation and even less expectation. Yet from his first snap, he looked calm, decisive, and ready for the spotlight.
He finished the day completing 11 of 17 passes for 167 yards, one touchdown, and one interception, while adding several key scrambles that extended drives. The stat line won’t drop jaws — but the confidence he played with did.
Daniels showed pocket awareness beyond his experience, sliding away from pressure and making quick decisions. His 23-yard strike to Terry McLaurin late in the third quarter set up the go-ahead score, and his poise on third downs helped Washington finally sustain drives.
More importantly, he brought energy — the kind of spark the Commanders’ offense had been missing all season.
Coach Q’s Post-Game Interview: “He Earned That Win”
After the game, Head Coach Quentin Kaiser was clear about what Jalon Daniels meant to this victory.
“What I saw tonight was confidence,” Coach Q said post-game. “He didn’t flinch. We told him all week, ‘Be ready if your number’s called,’ and when it was, he stepped in like he’d been there before. That locker room felt his energy.”
When asked about what impressed him most, Kaiser didn’t hesitate.
“The moment wasn’t too big for him. You can coach reads, timing, mechanics — but you can’t coach composure. He gave us that tonight. He earned that win.”
Coach Q went on to praise Jalon’s leadership and presence in the huddle.
“Guys responded to him. You could see it — the O-line communicated better, the receivers were flying around, the sideline woke up. That’s what we’ve been missing — someone to command the offense with confidence.”
A Team Rallies Behind Its Rookie
Players echoed their coach’s praise after the game. Veteran receiver Terry McLaurin called the rookie “a natural competitor,” saying, “The kid came in cold and didn’t blink once. That says a lot.”
Even defensive captain Daron Payne gave credit where it was due. “We’ve been balling on defense all year,” Payne said, “but tonight, the offense gave us life. Jalon brought that juice.”
It was clear from the locker room vibe — this wasn’t just another win. It was a turning point.
A Confidence Boost for the Future
Whether or not Jalon Daniels has earned himself more playing time remains to be seen, but one thing is certain — he’s earned the respect of his teammates and coaching staff.
Coach Q kept things open-ended when asked about next week’s starter.
“We’re going to evaluate everything,” he said with a smile. “But I’ll tell you this — Jalon made that decision a lot tougher. And that’s exactly what you want from a young player.”
For a Commanders team that started the season 0-2 and desperate for direction, the rookie just gave them both hope and belief.
Final Thoughts
This win wasn’t just about breaking into the win column — it was about finding something real to build on. Jalon Daniels didn’t just manage the game. He changed the tone of a season.
In one night, the rookie went from backup to believer — and maybe, just maybe, the future face of Washington football.
