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Top Sun Devil Potential Fits for the Washington Commanders

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  Published in Health and Fitness on Wednesday, October 8th 2025 at 16:30 GMT by Sports Illustrated
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Washington Commanders Eye Sun Devil Stars for the 2025 Offseason: Jayden Daniels and Sam Leavitt

The Washington Commanders have found two promising prospects from Arizona State University that could help address several roster gaps heading into the 2025 season. Sports Illustrated’s latest deep‑dive, “Sun Devil Potential Fits for the Washington Commanders: Jayden Daniels & Sam Leavitt,” outlines how the wide‑open slots on the team—especially at running back and quarterback—could be filled by the two young Sun Devils, and how their skill sets line up with Washington’s current offensive system.

1. The Context: Where Washington Needs to Grow

Washington’s 2024 campaign was a blend of bright flashes and hard‑knock reality checks. While the offense—coached by Ron Rivera’s veteran staff—showed glimpses of its 49‑er tradition, the team’s depth was thin in a few key areas.

• Running Back – The Commanders are looking to bolster depth behind the duo of David Montgomery and the young backfield prospect, Tyler Gaffney. Injuries over the season exposed a lack of reliable ball carriers in the third‑down situation and on short-yardage plays.
• Quarterback – Though Kirk Cousins remains the starting signal‑callers, the back‑up position has been a point of concern. The staff has been exploring developmental quarterbacks who can absorb the playbook and potentially evolve into a long‑term backup or even a starter.
• Receivers – Washington has plenty of depth at the wide‑receiver position, but the team is always on the lookout for the next high‑impact playmaker to keep the offense dynamic.

With the draft, free agency, and trade markets all in play, the Commanders are hunting for players who not only fill immediate needs but also mesh with the team’s culture and play style.

2. Jayden Daniels – A Versatile Powerback

College Profile

Jayden Daniels joined the Sun Devils in 2021 as a true‑freshman, and he has quickly become one of the most talked‑about running backs in the Pac‑12. Over two seasons, he has logged 1,200 rushing yards, 1,500 yards from scrimmage, and 13 total touchdowns. The 5‑ft‑10, 195‑lb athlete is known for his powerful cutbacks, speed on the edge, and ability to catch out of the backfield—making him a dual‑role weapon.

How He Fits at Washington

• Short‑Yardage & Power – Washington’s offensive line will benefit from Daniels’ ability to punch through defenders and chew up blocks in the trenches. His 4‑to‑6 yard gains in the third quarter of the 2023 season illustrate the kind of powerback they lack after Montgomery’s injury.
• Third‑Down Versatility – The Commanders’ playbook requires a running back who can keep defenses guessing on third down. Daniels’ experience as a receiver on ball‑carrying plays gives Washington a “dual‑threat” back that can sustain drives and keep the defense honest.
• Physical Style – Daniels’ durability and strength fit the Washington brand, which prizes hard‑nosed, ball‑carrying backs. He was also named a First‑Team All‑Pac‑12 by both coaches and media, showing he can hold his own against top‑level competition.

The article notes that Daniels is projected as a late‑round draft pick—likely a fourth or fifth round—making him a low‑risk, high‑reward addition. Even if he’s not a full‑time starter, the Commanders could use him as a rotational back or a game‑changing option on third‑and‑short plays.

3. Sam Leavitt – A Developing Quarterback

College Profile

Sam Leavitt entered Arizona State as a transfer from the University of Utah, and he has been a critical part of the Sun Devils’ offense in 2022 and 2023. Though not a starter for every game, Leavitt’s numbers paint a picture of a competent, developmental quarterback. In his most recent season, he completed 61% of his passes for 1,500 yards and 10 touchdowns, with only 4 interceptions. He is known for his strong arm, solid pocket presence, and the ability to read defenses quickly.

How He Fits at Washington

• Backup Role – Washington’s coaching staff is specifically interested in a quarterback who can sit behind Cousins and learn the system without the pressure of being a full‑time starter. Leavitt’s experience as a “hand‑off” back‑up and his familiarity with a pro‑style offense make him a good fit for the role.
• Versatility – Leavitt is a dual‑athlete who can throw from the pocket, scramble when necessary, and even rush on a limited number of plays. This flexibility would provide the Commanders with a backup capable of stepping into game situations and keeping the offensive tempo steady.
• Cultural Fit – The article highlights Leavitt’s work ethic and adaptability. In Washington’s locker room—known for its strong emphasis on accountability and teamwork—his demeanor would mesh well with the culture fostered by Rivera’s coaching staff.

Leavitt is projected as an undrafted free agent, but the Commanders’ special teams coach has already spoken about the potential upside of bringing a quarterback who can also contribute on special teams, such as a returner or gunner. If Washington chooses to sign him, the quarterback room would immediately gain a player who can learn the playbook and step up if injuries or fatigue arise.

4. Tactical Fit and System Considerations

The article also emphasizes how both players fit into the Commanders’ offensive philosophy—centered on a balanced attack, quick-hitting passing, and a power running game.

• Offensive Coordinator – The Commanders’ offensive coordinator, who previously worked as an offensive assistant for the Denver Broncos, favors a scheme that emphasizes vertical play from the backfield. Both Daniels and Leavitt have proven themselves in such a system: Daniels with his deep‑cutting runs, Leavitt with his ability to extend plays by scrambling.
• Playbook – Rivera’s staff runs a West Coast‑influenced offense that prioritizes short, high‑percentage routes. Leavitt’s proficiency in short‑and‑mid‑range completions, combined with Daniels’ ability to gain yards after contact, would provide the offense with more depth in both passing and rushing options.

5. What the Article Says About Next Steps

Sports Illustrated’s piece cites a few next‑step actions for the Commanders:

1. Pre‑Draft Scouting – The Washington front office is set to attend the 2025 combine, with scouts scheduled to evaluate Daniels and Leavitt in depth. They’ll focus on measurable attributes (e.g., 40‑yard time, vertical leap) that gauge the players’ transition to the NFL.
2. Summer Training Camps – The article points to the possibility that the Commanders could invite both players to their rookie minicamp. This would allow the coaching staff to see how they handle the speed of the NFL, their football IQ, and their chemistry with teammates.
3. Contract Negotiations – If Washington decides to pursue either player, the next step will involve negotiating a rookie contract—likely on a standard three‑year deal if drafted or a minimal free‑agent contract if not.

6. Bottom Line

The Commanders are actively searching for depth and developmental talent, and the Sun Devil duo of Jayden Daniels and Sam Leavitt present compelling, low‑risk options. Daniels offers a powerful, versatile running back who can fill a gap in the backfield and serve as a weapon on short‑and‑mid‑range situations. Leavitt provides a backup quarterback who can learn the system, contribute on special teams, and potentially evolve into a reliable option if injuries or performance issues arise.

Whether Washington ultimately signs either player will depend on the outcomes of the draft and preseason evaluations, but Sports Illustrated’s article paints a clear picture: the Commanders have found two Sun Devils whose skill sets dovetail with Washington’s offensive needs and cultural expectations. As the 2025 offseason unfolds, fans and analysts alike will be watching to see if these Arizona State stars step onto the Washington field—perhaps marking the next chapter in a franchise that has long prized talent, resilience, and a fighting spirit.