Jayden Daniels Reunites with Raiders Coach Antonio Pierce: A ‘Surreal’ Combine Experience
When Antonio Pierce recruited Jayden Daniels to Arizona State, he was a “little skinny dude from San Bernardino” weighing 150 pounds wet. However, fast-forward to the present, and Daniels has become one of the top three quarterbacks in the NFL Draft. Coincidentally, Pierce is now the linebackers coach and head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders, and they are considering trading up to get Daniels.
At the NFL Scouting Combine, Daniels walked into a team interview and was pleasantly surprised to see Pierce. He described the experience as “surreal” and appreciated how professional Pierce was during the interview. Daniels acknowledged that Pierce played a significant role in his success and said their relationship goes beyond football.
Daniels had an impressive college career, playing three years at Arizona State before transferring to LSU. Last year, he won the Heisman Trophy after throwing for 40 touchdowns and running for 10. Pierce, who had predicted Daniels would win the Heisman during recruitment, expressed his pride in his former recruit’s achievements.
Daniels is reportedly 6-foot-3 and 206 pounds, but official measurements will be taken before his workout on Saturday. He expressed gratitude towards Pierce for taking a chance on him when he weighed only 150 pounds in high school.
In addition to reuniting with Pierce, Daniels also had the opportunity to meet new Raiders offensive coordinator Luke Getsy. He described the meeting as great and enjoyed the energy of the whole coaching staff.
The Raiders have shown interest in all seven of the top quarterbacks in the draft, as they are looking for someone who can potentially beat out incumbent Aidan O’Connell. Other prospects who met with Pierce spoke highly of him and praised his coaching abilities.
Jayden Daniels’ combine experience with Antonio Pierce was undoubtedly a special moment for both of them. From being recruited as a “little skinny dude” to becoming a top quarterback prospect, Daniels has come a long way. With Pierce’s guidance and belief in him, Daniels has been able to prove his doubters wrong at every level of football. As the NFL Draft approaches, the Raiders’ interest in Daniels shows that their reunion could soon extend beyond college football.