From Undrafted to Starter: Jalon Daniels Set for First NFL Start with Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Stepping In After Mayfield’s Injury

The 23-year-old rookie enters Sunday’s matchup holding a distinction across the league’s first month. While teams have deployed a limited number of drafted quarterbacks this season—with only 10 selected in the draft, just two in the first round, and none in the second—Daniels took a different path. He signed with the Buccaneers as an undrafted free agent in April following a college career at Kansas.

During last week’s loss to Minnesota, Mayfield exited the field in the final minutes of the fourth quarter with a dislocated thumb, giving Daniels his first taste of regular-season action across a handful of snaps. Having impressed Todd Monken during training camp to secure the backup role behind Mayfield, Daniels now commands the offense as the team chases its first victory of the season against a 2-1 Green Bay squad.

Development at Kansas and Preseason Performance

Daniels spent six seasons with the Kansas Jayhawks, earning the starting nod in all 12 games during each of his final two years on campus. His most productive statistical campaign came in 2025, when he completed passes for 2,531 yards, 22 touchdowns, and seven interceptions while helping guide the Jayhawks to a 5-7 record.

Durability concerns and occasional inconsistencies with ball placement contributed to him sliding out of the April draft entirely. Buccaneers officials subsequently signed him among a group of roughly 15 undrafted rookie quarterbacks. Over three preseason appearances, Daniels accumulated 239 passing yards, one touchdown, and zero interceptions, proving enough to secure a spot on the roster.

Evaluations and Expectations on Sunday

NFL analysts have pointed to the rookie’s physical traits as the foundation of his potential. DAZN NFL writer Ana Gonzalez highlighted assessments from analyst Greg Cosell, who identified Daniels as a favorite during the draft process, praising his poise, concentration, mobility, and arm talent. Cosell noted that Daniels possesses the tools to eventually develop into a starting quarterback in the professional ranks.

Sunday’s matchup against the Packers presents a significant test for any young signal-caller making his professional debut. Analysts anticipate growing pains as the rookie adjusts to game speed, but the organization will look to see how the undrafted rookie handles his first extended test running the offense.