Rising star Washington Commanders rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has led his team to an impressive 3-1 start in the 2024 season, surpassing all expectations. Throughout the sports world, and especially in the DC region, there has been a palpable buzz, as fans nervously follow each hit Daniels takes in the game. A significant part of Daniels’ success comes down to his intense preparation, a process in which Dr. Dillon Balkin has played a vital role.
A native of Montgomery County, Dr. Balkin has built a reputation for getting professional athletes, like Daniels, ready for the season and each subsequent game, ensuring their bodies are well-prepared for the rigorous demands of elite sports. His journey to this point is a testament to overcoming challenges and pursuing a passion relentlessly.
While still in his teens, Dr. Balkin found himself regularly in trouble, but his life took a turn when he landed a job as a chiropractic assistant. This experience gave him the direction he needed. After a year at Montgomery College, he delved into the study of kinesiology, earning a bachelor’s degree at the University of Maryland, followed by his Doctoral degree in Chiropractic with a focus on sports injury rehabilitation from a prestigious institution in Florida. This phase of his life led him to work with athletes involved in a range of sports, from surfing and running to CrossFit competitions.
Dr. Balkin’s love for sports led him back to Montgomery County with an ambition to work with NFL players. He set up his practice, Optimal Performance, in Rockville in 2019. His first professional football client was Cardale Jones of the DC Defenders. This association paved the way for a connection with the late Dwayne Haskins, then quarterback of the Washington Commanders. Haskins introduced Dr. Balkin to several key players, expanding his client base within the NFL.
His connection with Jayden Daniels in June marked the beginning of a productive professional relationship. From day one, Dr. Balkin applied his comprehensive approach, preparing Daniels’ body to handle hits. He placed him in controlled compromised positions, honing Daniels’ ability to withstand the brutal physical strain of NFL games. Dr. Balkin has spoken highly of Daniels’ work ethic and dedication to studying football and staying motivated. Their twice-weekly sessions focus on injury prevention and maintaining peak performance.
The bond between Dr. Balkin and Daniels goes beyond their professional sessions, as Dr. Balkin highlights the impact of Daniels’ mother, Regina, in his success. Regina plays a pivotal role in Daniels’ discipline and is a major advocate for recovery.
Dr. Balkin stresses the importance of athletes working proactively to prevent potential injuries. He has seen this quality in Daniels, who is always looking to stay ahead of the curve. “Jayden puts in the work ahead of time. He wants to be five steps ahead,” Balkin states.
Throughout his career, Balkin has worked with numerous notable athletes such as Stefon Diggs, Montez Sweat, and Jordan Hawkins. Balkin’s successful approach incorporates multiple elements like nutrition and adequate sleep.
Dr. Balkin’s Optimal Performance Rehab is slated to open a new flagship location on Shady Grove Road in July 2025. From a troubled teen to a highly sought-after chiropractic professional in the world of NFL, Dr. Dillon Balkin’s story is an inspiring tale of transformation and dedication.
