If you've scrolled through TikTok or X lately, you’ve probably seen the clip. It’s a grainy video of Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels and USC basketball sensation JuJu Watkins sharing a handshake that looks... well, a bit more than "just friendly." Since early 2025, everyone has been asking: does jayden daniels have a girlfriend, or is the internet just doing that thing where it ships every two famous people who stand within five feet of each other?
Honestly, the rumors are relentless. One week they’re "definitely dating," and the next, a random Reddit thread claims they’re actually cousins. Spoilers: they aren't cousins. But the truth about their relationship status is a bit more layered than a simple "yes" or "no."
The JuJu Watkins Connection: More Than a Handshake?
The smoke around these two started as a flicker during the 2024 NCAA Women’s tournament. Jayden was spotted courtside watching JuJu ball out for USC. Standard stuff for two high-profile athletes, right? Maybe. But then things got weirdly specific.
In October 2025, during a Commanders game against the Chargers, the cameras caught them sharing a "secret" handshake. It wasn't just a high-five. It was a practiced, synchronized routine that ended with some very telling smiles. Then there was the wristband. Before a tough game in November, Jayden was seen wearing a wristband with the number "12"—JuJu’s jersey number—accompanied by a small heart.
If that’s not a "soft launch," it’s the most aggressive platonic support in sports history.
Why people think they're dating
- The Birthday Bash: Jayden was seen leaving JuJu’s 20th birthday party in July 2025. They didn't just attend; they left together.
- Constant Support: From jersey retirements at Sierra Canyon to March Madness games, if JuJu is playing, Jayden is often there.
- The "Heart" Emoji: Even the official Washington Commanders social media accounts have leaned into it, posting videos of the two with heart-hand emojis.
The "Mama Regina" Factor
You can't talk about Jayden Daniels’ personal life without talking about his mom, Regina Jackson. She isn't just his mother; she's his protector and, arguably, the most influential person in his circle. In the Amazon Prime docuseries The Money Game, Regina didn't hold back.
She literally said she worries about "them girls" trying to "get their hooks" into her son now that he’s an NFL superstar. There’s a hilarious, viral moment from a basketball game where Regina actually sat between Jayden and JuJu. The internet memes were ruthless. People joked that Jayden couldn't even get a word in without his mom checking the vibe first.
But Regina has also clarified her stance. She told the New York Post that while she’s protective, she ultimately lets Jayden make his own choices. The fact that she’s been seen at several events alongside both Jayden and JuJu suggests that if they are dating, she’s at least given the green light. And in the world of Jayden Daniels, that’s basically a marriage license.
Clearing Up the "Cousins" Rumor
This is the one that won't die. Somewhere along the line, a rumor caught fire that Jayden and JuJu are first cousins. The "logic" was that Regina Jackson and JuJu’s mom, Sari Watkins, are sisters.
It is 100% false.
Journalists did the digging. Sari Watkins has four sisters, none of whom are named Regina. Jayden is from San Bernardino; JuJu is from Watts. They grew up in the same Southern California athletic ecosystem, which is why they know each other so well, but there is zero blood relation. The "cousin" thing was likely a joke started by fans to explain why they were so close without admitting they might be a couple.
Where Things Stand in 2026
So, does jayden daniels have a girlfriend right now?
As of early 2026, neither Jayden nor JuJu has officially said the words, "We are in a relationship." They are masters of the "no comment." When TMZ caught up with JuJu at LAX, she just smiled and kept walking. Jayden, meanwhile, has been focused on recovering from a dislocated elbow that cut his 2025 season short.
He’s currently heading to Saudi Arabia for Tom Brady’s Fanatics Flag Football Classic. He looks healthy, he looks focused, and notably, he’s still showing up to support JuJu whenever she’s on the court.
What we know for sure:
- They are extremely close. Whether it's a "power couple" situation or a very deep friendship, they are a constant in each other's lives.
- The family is involved. Jayden’s parents and JuJu’s inner circle have been spotted together multiple times.
- He's not "single" in the traditional sense. Even if there’s no official title, Jayden isn't out here playing the field or appearing on dating apps.
If you’re looking for a definitive "boyfriend/girlfriend" label, you might have to wait for an Instagram hard-launch. But in the world of pro sports, a heart on a wristband and a secret handshake in front of 60,000 people usually speaks louder than a press release.
📖 Related: NC State Women's Basketball: Why the Wolfpack is Finally a National Brand
To stay updated on Jayden's recovery and his 2026 season with the Commanders, keep an eye on official team injury reports and his rare personal glimpses on social media. If a relationship announcement happens, it’ll likely come after the 2026 NFL Draft when the spotlight on his personal life hits a new fever pitch.