Jayden Daniels' influence within the Washington Commanders is growing. The quarterback is being more vocal about what he wants schematically under new offensive coordinator David Blough. And the signing of running back Rachaad White suggests he's not stopping there.
White is a good player worth signing on his own merit. However, his previous connection to Daniels from their time at Arizona State is probably no coincidence.
He's a legitimate dual-threat who went over 1,500 yards from scrimmage just two seasons ago. White is a playmaker with the football in his hands, and the Commanders were desperately short of those last season. According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, it's only a one-year deal. But if everything goes well, this could turn out to be more than a short-term arrangement.
Rachaad White signing proves Commanders are listening intently to Jayden Daniels
Daniels already trusts White. He knows where he is going to be. He knows that when things aren't developing as expected downfield, there is a prominent safety blanket he can depend upon. The feeling is mutual with the 2022 third-round pick, who hinted at his desire to reunite with the signal-caller in Washington on social media.
What cannot be disputed now is the role Daniels is having behind the scenes.
The Commanders know they will only go as far as the former LSU phenom takes them. They are valuing his input much more and are willing to do whatever it takes to provide Daniels with the supporting cast needed to flourish. But with White, this isn't just an old pals' act; he can play.
Though White may have fallen behind Bucky Irving in the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' pecking order, there is a lot to like about his fit in Washington. This might be as a tandem with Jacory Croskey-Merritt, but it would be surprising if it wasn't a feature role.
Daniels wants comfort around him. There is a lot at stake for the Commanders in 2026, which is also the last campaign before the quarterback becomes extension-eligible. Trust is everything, and if wide receiver Brandon Aiyuk also joins when he is inevitably released by the San Francisco 49ers, the former Sun Devils' trio could take Washington to even greater heights.
The Commanders are right to give Daniels a say in some important decisions. It's a sign of their faith in the player, and it gives him a sense of added responsibility. He'll know how precarious things are right now, but he's coming to the fore by real intent and high demands.
White and Daniels are back together. If this transaction goes as expected, it's all systems go.