NFL Shaken as a Rising Star Claims 2024 Rookie of the Year Title

The NFL world is buzzing as Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels has officially been named the 2024 Pepsi® Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Year, as announced today by Pepsi and the NFL.

A Record-Breaking Debut Season

Daniels, the No. 2 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, delivered an unforgettable rookie campaign, setting multiple records and establishing himself as one of the most dynamic young quarterbacks in the league. His historic season includes:

– Highest completion percentage (69.0%) ever by a qualified rookie quarterback.

– Most rushing yards (891) by a rookie quarterback in NFL history.

– Fourth-highest passer rating (100.1) by a qualified rookie quarterback all-time.

– Second in passing yards (3,568) and touchdown passes (25) among all rookie quarterbacks in 2024.

– Six rushing touchdowns, proving his dual-threat dominance.

A Grateful Champion

In his acceptance speech, Daniels expressed gratitude to those who supported him throughout his journey:

“I want to thank my family and friends for their love and support. I also want to thank my coaches and teammates—I wouldn’t be able to accept this award without them. I am honored and blessed to be named the 2024 Pepsi Zero Sugar Rookie of the Year. Thank you to all the fans who took the time to vote for me all season—it is truly a privilege to play for you, and I can’t wait to see everyone again in 2025!“

A Historic Run to the Playoffs

Daniels didn’t just shine in the regular season—he dominated in the postseason as well. He started and won 14 games, including playoffs, tying Ben Roethlisberger’s 2004 record for the most total wins by a rookie quarterback. He also joined an elite group of rookie quarterbacks to win multiple playoff games, a feat previously accomplished by Joe Flacco (2008), Mark Sanchez (2009), and Brock Purdy (2022).

Daniels’ 5,416 total yards (passing + rushing) and 37 combined touchdowns in the regular season and playoffs are both NFL records for a rookie quarterback.

Tough Competition for the Award

Daniels was one of six standout rookies nominated for the prestigious award. The other finalists included:

– Brock Bowers (TE, Raiders)

– Bucky Irving (RB, Buccaneers)

– Malik Nabers (WR, Giants)

– Bo Nix (QB, Broncos)

– Brian Thomas Jr. (WR, Jaguars)

The finalists were determined based on their exceptional performances throughout the season. Weekly voting for the Pepsi Zero Sugar NFL Rookie of the Week played a crucial role in narrowing down the finalists, with fan votes helping to decide the ultimate winner.

Pepsi’s Long-Standing Partnership with the NFL

This marks the 24th year of Pepsi serving as the Official Soft Drink of the NFL and the 23rd year of the Pepsi Zero Sugar Rookie of the Week and Rookie of the Year awards. Over the years, Pepsi has continued to celebrate the league’s emerging superstars, providing fans with a voice in recognizing the next generation of NFL greats.