Commanders' Jayden Daniels Names His Favorite Athlete of All Time

Jayden Daniels is preparing for his third season as quarterback of the Washington Commanders, hoping to bounce back from his injury-plagued season in 2025.

Daniels wore Kobe Bryant Nike cleats during an offseason practice this week, paying tribute to his “favorite athlete of all time.”

While speaking with reporters, the 25-year-old signal caller was asked to explain what the “Mamba Mentality” means to him as he plays football at the highest level.

“[He’s] my favorite athlete of all time. What he meant, not only to my life, but Southern California, where I’m from. I’m a huge fan of the Lakers,” Daniels said. “To see the work that he put in. Hopefully one day I can resemble that in some way.

“I know I can’t be Kobe, but I can be Jayden Daniels.”

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Daniels burst onto the NFL scene as the Commanders’ No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 draft. The former LSU quarterback secured Offensive Rookie of the Year honors in his debut season, completing 69% of his pass attempts for 3,568 yards and 25 touchdowns in Year 1. He also rushed for 891 yards and six touchdowns as the Commanders played their way to the NFC Championship game.

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Daniels appeared in just seven games for the Commanders in 2025 as he dealt with a variety of injury issues, including a dislocated left non-throwing elbow.

Washington will begin its 2026 regular-season schedule with a Week 1 matchup against the division-rival Philadelphia Eagles on Sept. 13.

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This story was originally published June 18, 2026 at 12:42 PM.