Jayden Daniels took the soccer world by storm after successful the 2023 Heisman Trophy — however his household has been there from day one.
“Dad, you set a soccer in my arms once I was younger. I do know you raised me to be a nook, however hopefully now the choice to play quarterback paid off,” Jayden joked throughout his Heisman Trophy acceptance speech in December 2023, honoring his father, Javon “Jay” Daniels. “You taught me learn how to play, lead and be calm irrespective of the scenario. I do know I wouldn’t be on this stage if it wasn’t for you, so thanks. I like you.”
The athlete, who was picked by the Washington Commanders through the 2024 NFL Draft, then turned his consideration to his mom, Regina Jackson.
“My rock, my momma. You have been so nervous once I was enjoying my first highschool sport that you simply couldn’t even watch my first highschool landing. You closed your eyes,” he recalled. “However after that you simply by no means took your eyes off the sphere. … You inspired me to all the time guess on myself since you all the time believed in me it doesn’t matter what. … I like you mother.”
Scroll right down to get to know Jayden’s household and private cheer squad:
Javon Daniels
Earlier than his son grew to become a giant identify in soccer, Javon performed cornerback at Cajon Excessive College in California. He went on to play school ball on the College of Washington earlier than transferring to Iowa State College.
Javon met Jayden’s mom, Regina, as youngsters whereas attending Cajon Excessive College in San Bernardino. They later reunited and welcomed Jayden in December 2000. The pair don’t look like married.
Javon coached Jayden all through his childhood and has been one in all his greatest supporters. “When he was sufficiently old to stroll, I handed him a ball and I stated, ‘That is what you’re going to do,’” Javon instructed reporter Marty Smith in December 2023 forward of the Heisman Trophy ceremony. “He took that ball and he ran with it.”
Regina Jackson
Regina grew to become a mom in January 1999 when she gave beginning to daughter Bianca. She and Javon welcomed Jayden the next 12 months.
After cheering on her son from the sidelines for years, Regina grew to become an authorized NFL agent to higher assist Jayden and his profession. Though she wasn’t listed as a part of Jayden’s illustration workforce when he was drafted in April 2024, she is licensed.
“I’ve witnessed many moments with this child, however watching him signal his first provide of employment (which is the most effective one) is priceless,” Regina wrote through Instagram in June 2024. “All his onerous work at this time paid off. His resilience, dedication, and staying the course received him right here. I’m excited for what’s to come back. He isn’t achieved. Extra to come back. #mycommander #myQB #momma5.”
Bianca
Jayden’s older sister, Bianca, was born in January 1999. In keeping with her mother’s social media put up in January 2022, Bianca is pursuing a profession in leisure and filmmaking.
Jayden acknowledged his sibling in an open letter he penned after declaring for the NFL draft in April 2024 through The Gamers Tribune. “One factor I can inform you is, it takes a village to get on this place. It additionally takes numerous love,” he wrote. “I simply wish to thank the entire individuals who helped me get up to now. I wish to thank my household above all. Shoutout to my mother and my dad, my sister, my grandparents, and all of my prolonged household as nicely.”