The Tampa Bay Buccaneers took a chance on former Kansas quarterback Jalon Daniels after the 2026 NFL Draft, signing him as an undrafted free agent. While Daniels faces an uphill climb to make the 53-man roster, his athleticism and natural playmaking ability give him a legitimate opportunity to develop into an NFL quarterback.

The traits are easy to see. The challenge will be turning those flashes into consistent production.

Athleticism Is Daniels’ Calling Card

Daniels is one of the better athletes at the quarterback position. His speed allows him to escape pressure, extend plays, and routinely pick up first downs with his legs. Unlike some mobile quarterbacks, he doesn’t hesitate to run between the tackles, displaying a competitive edge that shows up throughout his game.

That athleticism also translates to his passing ability. Daniels has a quick release that helps him get the ball out on short concepts, and he is comfortable throwing from off-platform or awkward body positions when a play breaks down.

When his mechanics are sound, he has more than enough arm strength to attack defenses vertically. He also displays good touch on screens and check-downs, allowing his receivers to create yards after the catch.

Consistency Remains the Biggest Obstacle

For all of his physical talent, Daniels’ development as a passer remains a work in progress.

His intermediate accuracy is inconsistent, particularly on timing routes where precise ball placement is critical. He also has a tendency to abandon clean pockets too quickly instead of climbing forward, often creating pressure that wasn’t initially there.

Processing defenses is another area that needs improvement. Daniels can be slow identifying coverage rotations and has struggled at times reading deep safeties after the snap.

Perhaps the most concerning aspect is that those issues persisted despite six college seasons. Under pressure, his decision-making can become erratic, leading to unnecessary mistakes.

Ball Security and Durability Raise Concerns

Protecting the football will be another emphasis as Daniels begins his NFL career.

Ball security remained an issue throughout college, with fumbles continuing to surface during his final season at Kansas.

Durability also cannot be ignored. Daniels has dealt with shoulder, back, and knee injuries during his collegiate career, and his undersized frame combined with his physical running style raises understandable questions about whether he can withstand a full NFL season.

A High-Upside Developmental Prospect

Daniels isn’t expected to compete for immediate playing time, but that’s what makes him an intriguing addition for Tampa Bay.

The Buccaneers are betting on traits. His athleticism, arm talent, and ability to create outside the pocket provide a foundation that cannot be coached.

If Tampa Bay’s coaching staff can improve his pocket presence, accuracy, and decision-making while helping him better protect the football, Daniels has the tools to develop into much more than an undrafted free agent.

There is still plenty of work ahead, but the raw ability is there. Now it becomes a matter of whether the Buccaneers can unlock it.

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