Jayden Daniels named 2024 Pepsi® Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Year
Josh Harris holds Commanders end-of-season press conference
Washington Commanders owner Josh Harris holds an end of season press conference.
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels was named 2024 Pepsi® Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Year.
Historic rookie season
The backstory:
Daniels, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft out of LSU, guided the Commanders to their first playoff berth since 2020 with a dazzling dual-threat performance.
Washington Commanders QB Jayden Daniels Named 2024 Pepsi® Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Year
"I want to thank my family and friends for their love and support," said Daniels. "I also want to thank my coaches and teammates. I would not be able to accept this award without you. I am honored and blessed to be named the 2024 Pepsi Zero Sugar Rookie of the Year. Thank you to all the fans who took the time to vote for me all season, it is truly a privilege to play for you and I can’t wait to see everyone again in 2025!"
His six rushing touchdowns and 55 rushing first downs underscored his impact as a playmaker. Daniels became the first player in NFL history to surpass 1,000 passing yards and 250 rushing yards in his first five career games, showcasing his dynamic ability to hurt defenses through the air and on the ground.
Daniels was just one of six players nominated for the award. The other finalists were Raiders tight end Brock Bowers, Buccaneers running back Bucky Irving, Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers, Broncos quarterback Bo Nix and Jaguars wide receiver Brian Thomas Jr.
Leading the Commanders to success
Commanders hope to continue success next season after NFC Championship loss
As the Washington Commanders fairytale season comes to an end, the players cleaned out their lockers and reflected on what took place over the last few weeks. FOX 5's Julie Donaldson has the latest details.
What we know:
The rookie quarterback propelled the Commanders to the playoffs, revitalizing the franchise and energizing its fanbase. His 31 total touchdowns (25 passing, six rushing) were second among all NFL rookies, as were his 3,568 passing yards.
He finished second in rushing yards among quarterbacks league-wide, cementing his status as one of the NFL's brightest young stars.
The Source: Information from the NFL and FOX 5's reporting contributed to this report.