Here’s a statement that hasn’t been made in decades — not since the days before Dan Snyder owned an NFL team: Players are eager to play for the Washington Commanders.
In recent weeks, some players have privately expressed to their agents or sources that they’d like to be traded to Washington, league sources told ESPN.
The Commanders may still make moves ahead of Tuesday’s 4 p.m. ET trade deadline, with sources indicating they’re considering adding a cornerback and possibly a wide receiver.
Even if no trades materialize, the fact that players want to join the Commanders is a promising sign for the team’s future in free agency, ESPN sources say.
This shift is a product of fresh ownership, a restructured front office, a new coaching staff, and, perhaps most importantly, rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. Daniels is not only in the running for Offensive Rookie of the Year but could even contend for MVP.
After a dramatic, game-winning Hail Mary touchdown, a Commanders official noticed Daniels sitting calmly at his locker, watching as his teammates celebrated. Daniels appeared collected and composed, almost as if he had anticipated the victory, reflecting a maturity and confidence rare in a rookie.
The Commanders are now positioned not only to compete for a division title and playoff spot but also to change the team’s reputation for the better.
Two plays before Brown’s touchdown, Washington ran a similar setup, but Daniels had to run out of bounds. On the next play, he suggested a new plan to Kingsbury, who didn’t hesitate to approve.
In shotgun, Daniels took a three-step drop, kept the safety in place with his eyes, and threw a perfectly timed pass to Brown in the end zone.
“He’s willing to take those small chances,” Brown said. “Most wouldn’t attempt them, but he doesn’t see it that way. Even if the odds are low, he’ll go for it.”
Daniels said it all comes down to trust.
“It’s not just about me; it’s about my teammates going out there and making tough plays,” he said. “That’s how we build our brotherhood. We trust each other to make things happen.”
