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In recent weeks, Washington's rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has seen a significant change in his performance levels. Initially captivating fans with his remarkable skills, Daniels has now appeared more ordinary. In his first six games, he boasted impressive statistics: completing 75.3% of his passes, averaging 8.46 yards per attempt, achieving six passing touchdowns, two interceptions, and an added 322 rushing yards with five more scores on the ground.

However, everything changed after a Week 7 rib injury against the Carolina Panthers, limiting Daniels to just two passing attempts in that game. Although Washington achieved a dramatic Hail Mary victory over the Bears in Week 8, Daniels' performance was less inspiring, completing 20 of 37 passes for 274 yards without a touchdown or interception.

The downward trend continued over the past three games, all of which were losses for the Commanders. Daniels' completion rate dropped to 61.5% with an average of 6.42 yards per attempt, accumulating three touchdowns and three interceptions. In the Week 12 home loss to the Cowboys, 187 of his 275 passing yards occurred in the final 5:04 minutes of the game when Washington was already trailing 20-9, indicating a decline in overall effectiveness outside of critical moments.

During the first six weeks of the season, Washington's offense was a force to be reckoned with, ranking third in Expected Points Added per play. In contrast, they have plummeted to 29th over the past three weeks. This sharp decline raises questions about whether Daniels' injury is at fault or if other factors are in play.

Despite some positives, such as a consistent Big-Time Throw (BTT) rate around 2.8% and a lower Turnover-Worthy Play (TWP) rate of 1.2%, other metrics have suffered. Daniels' Adjusted Completion rate fell to 73.3%, his average depth of target (aDOT) decreased to 6.1 yards, and his pressure-to-sack rate increased to 27.3%, the sixth-highest in the NFL.

Washington's scheme and pass-catching capabilities seem to be less effective than initially thought, posing a challenge for the rookie quarterback. Daniels' ability to elevate his game and adapt to tougher defensive adjustments may determine whether the Commanders can bounce back and aim for their first playoff appearance since 2020.

Ultimately, the Commanders and their rookie sensation stand at a critical juncture. If Daniels can draw on his substantial physical talents and lead them effectively, regardless of schematic weaknesses, Washington may still turn their season around. The coming games will be pivotal in revealing whether this promising quarterback can lift his team from its current struggles.