Jalon Daniels: From Kansas Star to NFL Starter for the Buccaneers
Jalon Daniels has emerged as a notable name in American football, particularly for those who followed the Kansas Jayhawks football program. While Kansas is predominantly recognized as a basketball school, Daniels made a significant impact during his time there, ultimately leading him to the NFL. Now, as an undrafted rookie quarterback for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he is set to make his second start against the Dallas Cowboys.
The odds of a high school player committing to Kansas and later starting a game against a team like the Cowboys are slim, making Daniels' journey all the more intriguing. Originally from Lawndale, California, Daniels attended Lawndale High School, where he faced a limited scholarship offer list. His options included Kansas, Syracuse, Louisiana, Middle Tennessee State, Army, and Air Force, indicating that he was not heavily pursued by major football programs.
After initially committing to Middle Tennessee State, Daniels flipped his decision and chose Kansas. His college career began with a challenging 2020 season, where he started six games for a Jayhawks team that finished 0-9. However, his fortunes began to change in 2021 when an injury to the starting quarterback allowed him to take the reins. He led Kansas to its first-ever victory over the Texas Longhorns in Austin, showcasing his potential despite the team's struggles.
In 2022, Daniels continued to impress, guiding Kansas to a 5-0 start before a shoulder injury sidelined him for four games. He ended the season with a remarkable performance in the Liberty Bowl against Arkansas, throwing for 5444 yards. His efforts did not go unnoticed, as he was named the Big 12 Preseason Player of the Year in 2023, although a back injury limited him to just three games that season.
That's the Call
Despite his impressive college stats, including over 2,500 passing yards and 22 touchdowns in his final season, Daniels went undrafted in the NFL. The Buccaneers signed him as an undrafted free agent, where he quickly made a name for himself during the preseason, outperforming veteran Jake Browning to secure a backup role. With Baker Mayfield sidelined due to injury, Daniels is now stepping into the starting position, a testament to his hard work and determination.
As he prepares to face the Cowboys, Daniels aims to improve upon his first start, where he faced challenges but showed glimpses of his potential. His journey from a lesser-known college quarterback to an NFL starter is a compelling narrative that highlights the unpredictability and excitement of football. The Buccaneers' decision to trust in Daniels reflects their belief in his abilities and the potential he brings to the team as they navigate a challenging season.
