Throughout his six-year college career at Kansas, Jalon Daniels was rarely considered a lock to reach the NFL, and even less likely to become a starting quarterback as a rookie.
Yet Daniels is now the starting quarterback for the Buccaneers against the Packers. With Baker Mayfield out, the undrafted rookie has moved into the role and says he is ready for the opportunity.
“I don’t even know if I can put it into words,” Daniels said. “It’s a dream come true. It’s a dream come true to even play for an NFL organization. To be able to go out there and have my first NFL start, it means everything.”
As is often the case for undrafted rookies, Daniels received limited first-team practice reps until Mayfield was injured last week. Still, he says he has prepared as though he were the starter all along.
“Every single week I prepare as if I’m going to get the starting reps,” Daniels said.
The 0-3 Buccaneers are in desperate need of a win. If Daniels can deliver one, it will be among the most surprising stories of the NFL season.
