Commanders’ Jayden Daniels connects with Terry McLaurin for 16-yard touchdown

NEW ORLEANS — Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels reminded fans in Louisiana that he can still do what he once did for two years in this state: make big plays.

Daniels capped Washington’s first drive against the New Orleans Saints with a 16-yard touchdown pass to wide receiver Terry McLaurin, two plays after Daniels fumbled at the 2-yard line. It was the 10th touchdown reception of the season, the best mark of McLaurin’s career, and gave Washington a 7-0 lead.

YES 17 @budlight | #EasyToCelebrate pic.twitter.com/mfJyanocUZ

– Washington Commanders (@Commanders) December 15, 2024

But the play was reminiscent of what Daniels did at Louisiana State a year ago en route to winning the Heisman Trophy. He stretched the play for 8.04 seconds before connecting with McLaurin.

On second-and-goal from the 16-yard line, Daniels dropped back but was pressured from the right side, forcing him to run to the left. He then turned to his right (at one point he touched the ball on the ground to regain his footing at the 25-yard line) and then began to move upfield, where he saw McLaurin break free.

Daniels then unloaded a hit on McLaurin, who had initially started on the right side of the field.

The pass had a 16.1% chance of being completed, according to NFL Next Gen Stats, as McLaurin had just 0.7 yards of separation.

Daniels has thrown 18 touchdown passes this season. The Commanders’ drive was extended thanks to unnecessary roughness on a successful 45-yard field goal by Greg Joseph.