Commanders coach Dan Quinn’s Jayden Daniels revelation is game-changer

The Washington Commanders may be preparing for a significant offensive adjustment in 2026, and head coach Dan Quinn revealed during organized team activities that quarterback Jayden Daniels is already at the center of it.

Speaking during the Commanders’ first OTA session on Wednesday, Quinn pointed to a noticeable schematic change involving Daniels’ usage under center within offensive coordinator David Blough’s system. NBC4 Sports reporter JP Finlay shared Quinn’s comments on X, formerly known as Twitter.

“Dan Quinn says even in OTAs it’s noticeable how much more frequent Jayden Daniels is under center. This will be a big change in David Blough’s offense.”

The revelation signals a potentially major shift for Washington’s offense entering the upcoming season. Daniels frequently operated out of shotgun formations during his first two NFL seasons, but the increased use of under-center formations could expand the Commanders’ play-action game and alter how defenses approach the offense.

Washington is looking for improvement following a disappointing 5-12 campaign that ended without a playoff appearance. Daniels’ development remains one of the franchise’s biggest priorities after an injury-plagued sophomore season interrupted the momentum he built during his rookie year run to the NFC Championship.

Commanders adjusting offense to maximize Jayden Daniels’ versatility entering 2026 season

The 25-year-old appeared in seven games during the 2025 season, throwing for 1,262 yards while completing 60.6% of his passes. He recorded eight touchdowns and three interceptions with an 88.1 passer rating and a 44.7 QBR before multiple injuries limited his availability.

Daniels also continued to impact games with his mobility, rushing 58 times for 278 yards and two touchdowns while losing one fumble.

The increased focus on operating under center could help Daniels become more versatile as a passer while also creating additional opportunities for Washington’s rushing attack and play-action concepts. The adjustment also reflects Blough’s influence after taking over offensive responsibilities during the offseason.

Quinn and the Commanders will continue OTAs from May 28-29, June 2-4 and June 9-11 before mandatory minicamp begins June 16-18.

Washington is scheduled to open the regular season with a Week 1 road matchup against the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, Sept. 13 at 4:25 p.m. ET on FOX as the Commanders attempt to rebound from last season’s struggles.

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