Jayden Daniels Writes Inspiring Letter

LSU quarterback (QB) and Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels recently released a letter entitled, “A Few Words For My People.” He thanked all of the individuals who have helped him in his life to get to this point in his career. Although the letter is lengthy, here are some of the highlights.

His Grandfather

Daniels shared that his grandfather is a huge reason why he loves football so much. He passed it down to his father, who then passed it down to Jayden.

“My grandpa was there every step of the way, for 20 years of my life. He was the one who always picked me up from school and took me to practice. We’d always be laughing and cracking jokes. He was like my best friend.”

Unfortunately, the 23-year-old’s grandfather passed away about three years ago, and his grandmother shortly after. Although it was a tough time for the QB, Daniels said it taught him that you must love the people who love you because you never know what could happen.

Senior year

Daniels also recognized his time in high school, especially his junior year. Because he graduated early, this was his last year of high school.

He grew up in San Bernardino and recalled almost winning back-to-back state championships. Although the team lost the second year, he says that it was an especially important time in his life.

Not only is this when he settled into the quarterback position, but he also discusses how great it was playing with his best friends whom he had grown up with.

ASU and Coach Herm

Before he was LSU’s award-winning quarterback, Daniels played for Arizona State University. This is where he says he learned about the biomechanics of throwing the ball.

“I had a quick release, but it was like, How can we make it quicker? Also, at first, I was just throwing all arm — I wasn’t using my lower half. So I tweaked things like that.”

Daniels says his time as a Sun Devil was unforgettable. He claims he made “amazing memories” that he will always be “grateful for.”

This includes his time with Coach Herm Edwards, who he says was one of the hardest parts about leaving ASU. He recalls his teachings and support, demonstrating his true appreciation for him.

Coach Brian Kelly and LSU

Daniels recalls meeting LSU coach, Brian Kelly and immediately connecting with him. He says he could see his authenticity early on, as well as his belief in Daniels.

“I just want to help you achieve your goals in your life,” Kelly said to Daniels during his time deciding where to transfer.

Daniels also says that being at LSU helped him figure out who he was. This is when he truly started to take his career seriously and adopted a winner’s mentality.

Sherman Wilson

A large part of why Daniels became so focused at LSU is due to Sherman Wilson. Not only did he keep him motivated to stay in the race for the Heisman Trophy, but he also challenged Daniels to be the best he could be every day.

“When I’d get up at five o’clock in the morning to watch film, he used to be out there with me. There would be times where we’d be kind of racing to see who could get to the film room first. Bringing that competitive juice to 5 a.m. helped get my game to the next level. And it paid off.”

Daniels, of course, thanked his mom, dad, sister, and extended family, as well. He also mentioned his hometown, and anyone or anything that has helped him throughout his athletic career. It is clear the first-round prospect is about as humble as they come.

Victoria Jonach is an aspiring writer and media analyst fascinated by what kinds of activities players participate in off the football field. Growing up in New Jersey, she is a New York Giants fan and attends Rutgers University, pursuing a career in Journalism and Media Studies. She writes for FirstRoundMock.com covering anticipated draft picks and their acts of volunteerism, entrepreneurship, and other interests that shape these individuals.