New Quarterback Now Viewed As No. 2 Pick Over Drake Maye

The second pick of the 2024 NFL Draft has been up for discussion over the past several months. A quarterback will likely be taken with the pick, as the Washington Commanders hold the rights to the selection. 

While UNC prospect Drake Maye was gaining traction to having his name called at No. 2, recent Heisman winner Jayden Daniels is now seen as the favorite to land in Washington. 

“Daniels has a slight edge on Drake Maye for the No. 2 spot in the 2024 quarterback hierarchy because of his readiness to play,” per ESPN's Jeremy Fowler. “Firmly on the radar as a top-three pick, Daniels is tabbed by many executives as the most viable option for Washington at No. 2, though first-year GM Adam Peters has hidden his plans well.”

Daniels had one of the best college football seasons as a quarterback that the game has ever seen in 2023. He posted 40 touchdowns and four interceptions on 3,812 yards. 

Daniels led the nation in nearly every category, including a 95.6 QBR. He has the ability to come into an NFL franchise and compete on day one. After spending five seasons at the collegiate level, compared to Maye's three, it seems that teams are finding his readiness more enticing.