It’s never too early to look ahead to the NFL Draft … Especially considering this will be one of the most loaded drafts in recent memory.
While USC’s Caleb Williams and North Carolina’s Drake Maye are often mentioned as the favorites for the top overall pick, ESPN analyst Desmond Howard has thrown a curveball into the mix.
Howard recently expressed his belief that neither Williams nor Maye will end up being taken first overall … Instead, he has his eyes on a quarterback who has undergone remarkable development – LSU’s Jayden Daniels.
“I like Jayden Daniels and Matt Miller hit it on the head, he said he’s probably one of the most improved players in the country, but not just from last season to this season,” Howard stated emphatically.
Jayden Daniels is going to need a bigger trophy case after tonight.
– Davey O’Brien Award
– Walter Camp Player of the Year
– Johnny Unitas Golden Arm Award
– AP SEC Player of the Year
– AP Player of the Year
– SEC OPOTY
– Heisman FinalistMore to come… pic.twitter.com/nbXl2RVng9
— Zack Nagy (@znagy20) December 9, 2023
Daniels has indeed shown phenomenal growth and development throughout his college career.
It all led to his spectacular 2023 season where he raked in the hardware, including the prestigious Heisman Trophy.
Heisman winner & future NFL Quarterback Jayden Daniels🔥 https://t.co/knzXwNnUBB pic.twitter.com/W6ZZ8lhk8S
— Josh (@ypcjosh) December 11, 2023
The numbers speak for themselves, as Daniels threw for 3,812 yards, 50 total touchdowns and only four interceptions.
“We’re talking about from Arizona State (his first college stop) to where he is now, I mean such a progression, development. The way this young man processes everything, and the way he attacks the game,” Howard said excitedly.
“I love when you look at him from Arizona State, to the Heisman Trophy winner, just a great quarterback, great development,” Howard added, emphasizing Daniels’ growth and maturity through his entire career.
Jayden Daniels is the best player in the nation #Heisman pic.twitter.com/qPKidBWceu
— Paul Medica (@PaulMedica) December 10, 2023
It’s certainly true that the Jayden Daniels hype train is picking up steam.
Fellow ESPN analyst Kirk Herbstreit is another enormous supporter of the Heisman Trophy winner.
Having said that, it’s still hard to imagine Williams or Maye not going first overall.
But let’s get through the playoffs and then deal with all of the pre-draft workouts and see where we stand then.
Either way, Daniels has certainly proven that he can play at a very high level.
LSU Football QB Jayden Daniels wins the Davey O'Brien Award for College Football BEST QB pic.twitter.com/Yv3XKjjoMb
— NFL Rumors (@nflrums) December 9, 2023
What are your thoughts on Daniels?
Do you think Howard is crazy to think he’ll go #1 overall?
Yes, it’s too early to know for sure, but who do you expect to hear their name called first come April???