So a lot of fans of the NFL have been scratching their heads, wondering why these top players from the 2024 draft class are opting out of the combine.

Some think the egos are inflated, some say why risk injury? But, what about the reasoning that Jayden Daniels of LSU gave?

Jayden Daniels says that his decision to not test at the NFL Combine was less about him and more about his teammates. By not testing, a lot of teams will be wanting to check out his Pro Day in Baton Rouge. His teammates will also get exposure from it.

To me, as a fan of the sport, this speaks to this young man’s character. I love the attitude and the commitment to the guys who helped him get where he is, his Tigers teammates.

Obviously Daniels is not alone, Caleb Williams and UNC’s Drake Maye have chosen not to participate in throwing at the combine either. A decision that many top quarterback prospects make. Previously, notable quarterbacks such as Andrew Luck, Robert Griffin III, Kyler Murray, and Tim Tebow have also declined the invitation to throw at the combine.

In his fifth year, but only second at LSU, Daniels made tremendous strides in his development as an elite level QB.

The LSU quarterback won the 2023 Heisman Trophy, surpassing collegiate standouts Bo Nix, Michael Penix Jr., and Marvin Harrison Jr. However, unlike his Heisman-nominated counterparts Nix and Penix Jr., Daniels has opted not to throw at the 2024 NFL Combine.

During the 2023 season, he passed for 3,812 yards and 40 touchdowns, averaging 11.7 yards per attempt. Additionally, Daniels rushed for 1,134 yards and 10 touchdowns, totaling 50 touchdowns overall.

In contrast with 2022, where Daniels accumulated 2,913 passing yards and 17 touchdowns, maintaining a 7.5 yards per attempt average. He also rushed for 885 yards and 11 touchdowns, while making one receiving touchdown as well.

LSU pro day is on March 27th, so we are weeks away, and just about 2 months to the draft! Let’s go!!!

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By Vincent Quezada

Photo courtesy of the Associated Press