Jayden Daniels vs. Robert Griffin III rookie stats: Comparing first seasons of duel threat Washington QBs

There are eerie similarities between the careers of Jayden Daniels and Robert Griffin III.

Both are Heisman Trophy winners. Both were selected with no. 2 choices of Washington. Both wasted no time adjusting to the NFL, where they starred in their first seasons.

Of course, the Commanders are hoping that Daniels’ time in the league goes differently than RGIII’s. Injuries derailed Griffin III’s career, and after three years as Washington’s starter, he found himself out of his role and soon out of the organization.

But if you’re just comparing the pair’s first seasons in the league, there’s a lot to like about Daniels’ pitching. Griffin III won Offensive Rookie of the Year and was named to a Pro Bowl in 2012. Although there is still plenty of season left in 2024, Daniels is well ahead of the rest of the field and appears to be well on his way to winning that honor. likewise.

How similar are the rookie seasons of Daniels and Griffin III? Sporting News investigates.

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Jayden Daniels vs. Robert Griffin III rookie stats

Griffin III wasted no time showing off his dual-threat abilities in the NFL. The former Washington starter enjoyed an incredibly successful rookie campaign in 2012, beating out former Colts star Andrew Luck and then-Seahawks starter Russell Wilson for Offensive Rookie of the Year, and it wasn’t that close. He received 58 percent of the vote for the honor, compared to 22 percent for Luck and 20 percent for Wilson.

His passing stats weren’t on par with Luck and Wilson. The Washington star threw for 3,200 yards (22nd among all QBs) and 20 passing touchdowns (tied for 19th among QBs), but his 65.6 completion percentage was good for fifth among starting QBs, and he threw only five selections all year.

What helped Griffin III win the award was his impact in the rushing game. He not only finished first among quarterbacks in rushing yards with 815, but it was good for 20th-most in the league. His seven rushing touchdowns were one behind former Panthers star Cam Newton.

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When it comes to Daniels, it’s a very similar story. His passing has been strong, but it is his ability to make a difference with his legs that beckons.

Through Week 11, Daniels has thrown for 2,147 yards (12th among all QBs) and nine touchdowns (21st among QBs). He averages 214.7 yards per game, which is 20th in the league. Those have been solid passing numbers, especially considering Daniels’ lack of weapons outside of Terry McLaurin, but it’s his rushing performance that adds another element to his game.

Daniels trails only two-time MVP Lamar Jackson in rushing yards among QBs, rushing for 464 yards. His four touchdowns are tied for second among quarterbacks, with Steelers QB Justin Fields leading the way so far.

There is a chance Daniels finishes his rookie season with more passing yards and rushing yards than Griffin III, but it will certainly be close.

Regardless, it’s been a phenomenal first campaign in the NFL for the Commanders quarterback, and he certainly looks like a franchise quarterback.