Analyzing Jayden Daniels: Is he a risky Top 3 pick in NFL Draft?
Earlier this week, Andrew Callahan discussed the upcoming NFL Draft, expressing a preference for Drake Maye due to his versatility and playmaking ability. He emphasized the importance of taking a chance on a top quarterback pick in the draft, noting how rare it is to find franchise quarterbacks beyond the early selections. While Fred raised questions about trading down or considering other players, Callahan advocated for prioritizing a strong quarterback choice given the unique opportunity presented by the draft.
Doug Kyed, a reporter for the Herald and colleague of Andrew Callahan, analyzed Jayden Daniels and shared his findings Toucher & Hardy show. Kyed sees Daniels as a talented quarterback with athleticism and accuracy but notes inconsistencies and concerns about his age and playing style’s compatibility with the NFL. Size and durability are also highlighted as potential issues, although Kyed acknowledges Daniels’ strengths, suggesting he could be a valuable pick for the Patriots despite not being guaranteed a superstar.
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TRANSCRIPT:
Fred Toucher: Andrew was talking about how impressed he was with Drake Maye and that if he had to choose between Daniels and Maye, he would choose Maye. You had the task of breaking down Jayden Daniels. What were your thoughts coming away from that?
Doug Kyed: He’s a very good quarterback with lots of upside. You love his athleticism and accurate arm. I wasn’t wowed, though; I didn’t come away saying this guy is 100% going to be a superstar. There are glimpses where he looks like Lamar Jackson running down the field and throwing perfect downfield passes for touchdowns, but he’s a bit inconsistent. Also, he’s older than the rest of these guys at 23 years old and didn’t break out until his fifth year in college, benefiting from two first-round picks at wide receiver. There are some concerns, but also a lot to like about him; he improved as the season went along.
Fred Toucher: What about his size? It’s a big concern, especially regarding injury risk. What did you see?
Doug Kyed: I agree; his thin frame is a concern. Listed at six foot four, 210 pounds, which might be generous, he would take massive hits early in the season because of his fearlessness and size. While he improved a bit later, his size combined with his playing style raises fears of injuries, especially in the NFL where defenders are bigger and faster.
Fred Toucher: Would you take him at number three if he’s available?
Doug Kyed: I would. He’s accurate, has impressive deep ball skills, and the Patriots need a future quarterback badly. While I’m not sure he’s a superstar, he has the potential to be a dangerous player in the NFL.
NICK GEMELLI is a Producer on Toucher & Hardy, weekday mornings 6-10AM on 985 The Sports Hub. He is also a contributor on 985thesportshub.com. Follow Nick on X (formerly Twitter) at @NickGemelli.
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