Commanders 2026 Preview: Can Jayden Daniels Take the Next Step?

The gist

1. Daniels suffered knee, hamstring, and elbow injuries across two seasons behind a thin offensive line, making durability the biggest question heading into 2026.
2. New offensive coordinator David Blough has no prior play-calling experience and a reported shift away from the spread system that made Daniels effective in 2024.
3. The opening schedule against Philadelphia, Dallas, Seattle, and London makes a 0-3 or 1-4 start likely, which could create a buy-low betting opportunity around Week 6.
4. Daniels is the second favorite for Comeback Player of the Year behind Mahomes, offering a high-variance bet if he returns to form.