Jayden Daniels reveals what's different for him entering second year at LSU
Jayden Daniels is definitely more comfortable in Year 2 at LSU as the team’s starting quarterback. Tiger fans hope so, considering the expectations.
The former Arizona State quarterback recaptured his freshman year magic in 2022 under Brian Kelly and within a new environment. He helped lead LSU to an SEC West title.
But now, LSU and Daniels want more and it seems like the quarterback is in a different mindset.
“I know how to maneuver, not just within football, but living in Louisiana now,” Daniels said. “My guys know me now. Last year when I came in, I was just the new guy, spring practice was barely starting … I was just trying to learn the playbook and know the guys and the coaches all at one time. So it was pretty fast for me. But now I’m more comfortable with the guys, they know me and how I am as a leader and as a person. Makes it for a better transition.”
Daniels spent time at the Manning Passing Academy this month and he gained some knowledge from the legends.
“Just the knowledge from the Manning family, from the other college counselors, just be able to just pick their brain and see what their system is like or what things that they see in their college experience,” Daniels said. “Really just coming out here and having fun with the kids and really just gaining as much knowledge as possible.”
Taking advantage of the weekend at the MPA was something Daniels couldn’t pass up. It’ll surely help him in Year 2 at LSU.
“Just the knowledge that they have, it’s football royalty here,” Daniels said. “So it’s a blessing when Archie texts my phone to be a counselor this year, I couldn’t turn it down and say no. I’m right down the street so it’s not that far.”
Last season, Daniels threw for 2,913 yards, 17 touchdowns, three interceptions and a 68.6% completion percentage. He also ran for a career high 885 yards and added 11 rushing touchdowns.
As a member of the Class of 2019, Daniels was a four-star recruit out of San Bernardino (Calif.) Cajon, according to the On3 Industry Ranking, a weighted average that utilizes all four major recruiting media companies. He was the No. 7 overall prospect in the state, the No. 3 quarterback in the class and the No. 50 overall prospect in the class.