Jayden Daniels, the quarterback for LSU, took to social media to refute rumors suggesting he is not interested in being selected by the New England Patriots in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft. This comes amid the Patriots’ struggles since the departure of Tom Brady in 2020, notably with a lackluster 4-13 record last season, as they grappled with quarterbacks Mac Jones and Bailey Zappe.
Contrary to the Patriots’ challenges, Daniels had an exceptional college football season in 2023, earning numerous awards. He amassed impressive statistics, throwing for 3,812 yards and 40 touchdowns, while also rushing for 1,134 yards and 10 additional scores over 12 games. Daniels led LSU to a 9-3 record and became only the third LSU player, following Billy Cannon and Joe Burrow, to win the Heisman Trophy.
As one of the top quarterback prospects anticipated to be selected early in the draft, alongside Caleb Williams and Drake Maye, Daniels has attracted significant attention. The Patriots, holding the third pick after the Chicago Bears and Washington Commanders, are well-positioned to secure a promising quarterback for their future.
Recent rumors surfaced suggesting some individuals within Daniels’ team opposed him being chosen by the Patriots. However, Daniels personally refuted these rumors on Tuesday through a tweet featuring a cap emoji, indicating the falsehood of the speculation. Additionally, Daniels’s agency, EAG Sports Management, dismissed the rumors earlier in the day, emphasizing Daniels’s excitement about any potential landing spot in the NFL.
With the NFL Draft approaching next month, speculation abounds regarding Daniels’s destination. Washington has emerged as a viable option, with Daniels suddenly gaining popularity compared to presumed second-overall pick Maye.
Notably, NFL personality Rich Eisen shared insights from the NFL Scouting Combine, suggesting that Daniels has surpassed Maye on many teams’ draft boards, positioning him as the second-best quarterback prospect behind Williams. Eisen highlighted Daniels’s perceived threat to defensive coordinators, as evidenced by their struggles against him in the SEC.
Daniels will have the opportunity to showcase his skills at LSU’s Pro Day on March 29 in Baton Rouge, with the anticipation of his future unfolding at the 2024 NFL Draft from April 25-27.