Commanders RB Gives Jayden Daniels Slight Edge Over Chargers Star
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After spending the first seven years of his career with the LA Chargers, Austin Ekeler embarked on a new journey in the NFL last year. Having gotten to see one of the league's top young talents in Jayden Daniels up close, he gave him a slight edge over his former teammate.
During his time with the Chargers, Ekeler got to play with another dynamic young quarterback in Justin Herbert. He had a lot of success in LA, breaking 1,000 scrimmage yards on four separate occasions.
Ekeler didn't have the start he wanted to in Washington, only appearing in 12 games. However, he is eager to provide a boost this season in hopes of helping the Commanders contend in the NFC.
Also read: Radio Host Makes Shocking Prediction on Commanders' Terry McLaurin
Austin Ekeler gives his thoughts on Jayden Daniels and Justin Herbert
Jayden Daniels #5 of the Washington Commanders scrambles against Nolan Smith Jr. #3 of the Philadelphia Eagles prior to the NFC Championship Game at Lincoln Financial Field on January 26, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Jayden Daniels #5 of the Washington Commanders scrambles against Nolan Smith Jr. #3 of the Philadelphia Eagles prior to the NFC Championship Game at Lincoln Financial Field on January 26, 2025 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Photo by/Getty Images
While recently appearing on YouTuber Matt King's 4th & Fore show, Ekeler was asked his thoughts on some of the quarterbacks he's played alongside in the NFL. When asked to pick between Daniels and Herbert, he went with the Commanders' star due to him being a dual threat.
"I think Jayden's more dynamic, just his running ability," Ekeler said. "It gives him a little bit more of a factor to take over the game. Where if nothing's there, he can still go make guys miss and he's still flying down the field. Where I think Justin relies a little bit more on his arm."
Ekeler also raved about playing with a QB who can pull off a big play at any moment with his arm or legs.
"It's awesome to watch these games, the games are so exciting," he continued. "We're players but we still have fun watching everything."
Austin Ekeler picks between Jayden Daniels & Justin Herbert as the better quarterback 👀 pic.twitter.com/va41pC4apO — Matt King (@yappmatt) August 9, 2025
Ekeler isn't the only one who views Daniels in a higher tier than Herbert. In ESPN's poll ranking the NFL's top QBs, Daniels (No. 5) finished two spots ahead of the Chargers star (No.7).
Also read: NFL Analyst Cites Key Element in Terry McLaurin Trade Saga
Heading into the 2025 season, Ekeler might find himself with a larger role within the Commanders' offense. Depending on how things unfold with Terry McLaurin, Washington might have a sizable void to fill. Being a dual threat himself in the backfield, Ekeler is someone capable of taking on more. However, for him to do so, he'll have to focus on staying healthy and on the field.
For more Washington Commanders and NFL news, head over to Newsweek Sports.
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