Ashton Daniels is one of the most intriguing college football quarterbacks in recent years — known for his athleticism, leadership, and progression through multiple programs. From a decorated high school career to a key role at Auburn and beyond, Daniels has captured attention across the football world. But one question often pops up: Is Ashton Daniels related to NFL quarterback Jayden Daniels? Let’s break it all down.
Early Life and High School Success
Ashton Daniels was born on May 29, 2004, in Atlanta, Georgia, and grew up in neighboring Buford, Georgia, where he attended Buford High School. He quickly made a name for himself as a dual-threat quarterback for the Buford Wolves. Daniels didn’t just play — he dominated:
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Led Buford to three straight state championships.
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Earned state title game MVP honors three years in a row — a rare feat in Georgia high school football.
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Attracted college interest for his versatility as both a passer and a runner.
Many scouts praised his athletic instincts and leadership at an early age, laying the foundation for a collegiate career.
College Career: Stanford to Auburn
After his standout high school career, Ashton Daniels committed to Stanford University, where he played for the Cardinal from 2022 through 2024:
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Appeared in 33 total games for Stanford.
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Passed for 3,986 yards with 21 touchdowns.
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Rushed for 1,117 yards and nine rushing touchdowns, showcasing his dual-threat capability.
In December 2024, Daniels entered the NCAA transfer portal and announced he would join the Auburn Tigers football program under coach Hugh Freeze. At Auburn in 2025, Daniels continued to impress with his mobility and leadership in the quarterback room, even stepping into starting roles during the season.
Was He Ever Related to Jayden Daniels?
Here’s the short answer: No, Ashton Daniels is not biologically related to NFL quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Despite the shared surname and both being quarterbacks, there are no confirmed family ties between Ashton and Jayden Daniels — one a collegiate athlete and the other a professional NFL player. They come from separate families and different regions of the country. The similarity in names has fueled speculation among fans, but there’s no evidence of a familial connection.
Instead, Ashton’s athletic lineage comes from his own family: his father, Juan Daniels, played college football at the University of Georgia, and his mother, Hadli Daniels, played volleyball for Georgia. This strong athletic pedigree helped shape his development from a young age.
Ashton’s Transfer From Auburn & Future Moves
After gaining valuable experience at Auburn — including standout performances and leadership — Ashton Daniels made another move through the transfer portal at the end of the 2025 season. In early January 2026, it was reported that Daniels entered the transfer portal again and committed to Florida State University (FSU) to continue his collegiate career.
This next chapter offers Daniels the chance to compete for a starting role and showcase his maturation as a quarterback capable of impacting a Power Five offense.
Conclusion: A Journey Built on Performance, Not Family Ties
Ashton Daniels’ rise — from a high school phenom to a respected college quarterback — underscores his hard work, athletic ability, and adaptability. Despite popular misconceptions, he is not related to Jayden Daniels. Instead, his football journey is shaped by his own family’s athletic background and the competitive environments at Stanford, Auburn, and now FSU.
Whether you’re a fan tracking his next move or a recruiter evaluating quarterbacks, Ashton Daniels proves that his story is defined by performance and persistence, not just a name.
