Having wrapped last year’s season finishing 4-13 overall and securing the spot as the last team in the NFC East, the Washington Commanders, a franchise known for its storied history, seemed to be stuck in a cycle of mediocrity – that is until this year.
This season, the Commanders have flipped the script, bringing back a bold flair to the NFL that hasn’t been seen from the franchise in a decade.
After an offseason overhaul that resulted in transformative shifts in the front office, coaching staff, and crucial roster positions, Washington reemerged as a force to be reckoned with.
Their 20-19 road victory over the New Orleans Saints on Sunday, Dec. 15, is not only a testament to their resilience this season but also a significant milestone for the franchise. The Commanders are now 9-5, their best start through 14 games since 1992.
“To go all the way down to the end, to the last play, you’ve heard me talk about the fight of the group and that’s one of the things I really admire about our team,” said head coach Dan Quinn.
“We’ve been in a lot of close games and so we’re getting battle-hardened. It’s not always comfortable to be in those spots but being on the sideline, right there at the end to go for it, that’s why we do it. So to come up with a win on the road, that’s a big deal.”
Currently ranked second in the NFC East and seventh in the NFC, Washington is commanding their way toward the playoffs with renewed momentum and purpose.
The turnaround is undoubtedly momentous, sparking promise among fans and setting the stage for what could be a pivotal moment in the franchise’s modern era.
The Rising Quarterback-Wide Receiver Duo Makes History Ahead of Eagles Matchup
The Commanders entered Sunday’s game against the Saints not having two of their top four pass receivers.
Wide receiver Noah Brown was placed on Washington’s injury reserve list Saturday due to a kidney injury, while running back Austin Ekeler has been on the injury reserve list since Week 12 following a scary hit that led to a concussion.
In their absence, wide receiver Terry McLaurin and tight end Zach Ertz became Washington’s top pass targets. McLaurin delivered a stellar performance in the first half, displaying his strong chemistry with rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Daniels and McLaurin helped Washington jump to a commanding 17-0 lead in the first half. McLaurin recorded his 10th receiving touchdown of the season in the first quarter, tying wide receiver Gary Clark (10 in 1991) and Bobby Mitchell (10 in 1964) for No. 7 all-time in franchise history for receiving touchdowns in a single season.
Later in the second quarter, he notched his 11th touchdown reception, also tying Jordan Reed (11 in 2015) and Mitchell (11 in 1962) No. 5 all-time in the touchdown receptions category.
McLaurin finished the day with seven receptions on 10 targets for 73 yards, including his two touchdown receptions.
History continued within Washington’s offense against the Saints. Daniels ended the day completing 25 of 31 passes for 226 yards and two touchdowns.
With over 650 rushing yards and 3,045 passing yards so far this season, Daniels joins former NFL quarterbacks Cam Newton and Robert Griffin III as the only rookies in league history to exceed 3,000 passing yards and 600 rushing yards in a season.
He also joins Newton, Griffin and Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson as one of just four rookie quarterbacks to rush for 650-plus yards, solidifying his position among the NFL’s dual-threat quarterbacks.
Jayden Daniels Starts His Community Initiative as a Commander Spreading Holiday Cheer
The rookie quarterback spread some holiday cheer at Raising Canes in Bowie, Maryland on Monday, Dec. 16 from 4 to 6 p.m. Daniels partnered with Raising Cane’s to give away 100 bikes and helmets to children from the Boys & Girls Clubs of Anne Arundel County and Greater Washington.
In addition to the quarterback, Santa Claus made a special appearance adding to the festive spirit, while also sharing hot chocolate with the kids provided by Stoney Man Coffee & Donuts.
This marks Daniels’ second year partnering with Raising Cane’s for their bike donation initiative.
During his Heisman-winning season at Louisiana State University, he partnered with Raising Cane’s owner and founder Todd Graves to donate 100 bikes to the Boys and Girls Club of Baton Rouge, La. He now has brought it with him to the DMV in his NFL rookie season.
“It’s a blessing to be in the position that I am,” Daniels said. “To be able to give back to the kids and see them all running around riding these bikes and having fun — seeing the smiles on their faces. I’m fortunate to go back and give back to the families too.”
