Why Jayden Daniels is sick of talking about the Chicago Bears

The Washington Commanders host the Chicago Bears on Monday Night Football in Week 6, on October 13, a matchup that will see quarterbacks Jayden Daniels and Caleb Williams face off for the second time in their young NFL careers.

Remembering the “Hail Maryland”

The first meeting between the top two picks in the 2024 draft will be remembered for its stunning finale, when the Commanders clinched a last-second victory with a miraculous Hail Mary touchdown. With time expiring, Daniels launched a desperate deep pass that was somehow tipped into the hands of Noah Brown in the end zone.

“It’s a miracle! It’s Noah Brown! Oh my goodness! This town is going crazy! It’s a madhouse in Landover, Maryland!” CBS broadcaster Jim Nantz exclaimed, almost as stunned as the crowd.

That play sealed a dramatic 18-15 win for the Commanders, with cameras catching a visibly furious Williams storming off the field.

Daniels tired of reliving Bears miracle moment

No matter what happens in his career, the play, quickly dubbed the “Hail Maryland,” will remain one of Daniels’ signature moments. But the 24-year-old quarterback is already weary of hearing about it, especially as the rematch approaches at Northwest Stadium.

Earlier this week, Daniels was asked why he avoids reflecting on that play and others from his past. His response was blunt: “Shit, I mean that Hail Mary ain’t gonna help us win a game on Monday, so what’s the point?”

Is there beef between Daniels, Williams and the Bears?

Daniels was selected No. 2 overall in the 2024 draft, one spot behind Williams, who had long been projected as the Chicago Bears’ choice at No. 1.

ESPN’s Michael Wilbon, formerly of The Washington Post, said he has it “on good authority” that Daniels “doesn’t like” Williams. While he couldn’t confirm the reason, Wilbon speculated it could stem from “the 1-2 thing,” referring to the Bears passing on Daniels.

However, a source close to Wilbon’s colleague Jeremy Fowler offered a different view, claiming “going No. 1 was not a focus for Daniels,” who was “comfortable” with his draft position and happy to be heading to Washington.

Pressure on Bears QB Williams in Monday’s rematch

Daniels went on to be named Offensive Rookie of the Year and led the Commanders to the NFC Championship Game, proving that his landing spot worked out just fine. The Bears, meanwhile, finished at the bottom of the NFC North with a 5-12 record.

As the two young stars prepare to meet again in Maryland, it’s Williams who has something to prove this time around.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.