Not many are expecting the Washington Commanders to win at the Detroit Lions. Their backs are against the wall versus the NFC's No. 1 seed. But this group is made of stern stuff.
The Commanders have overcome every major hurdle with aplomb this season. They've blown out some decent teams in the regular season. Even when they don't perform up to par, they almost always find a way to come through in the clutch.
This is astonishing when one considers the roster changes made during the offseason. Molding a new group quickly was a notable accomplishment for Dan Quinn and his coaching staff. The hard work isn't over and there is more for general manager Adam Peters to navigate in the coming months, but things couldn't look more positive.
Some players have come to the fore at the best possible time. Another strong effort at Ford Field this weekend on Saturday Night Football will improve their chances of continuing with the exciting project in 2025 and potentially beyond.
With this in mind, here are five Commanders players who can rubber-stamp new deals in the Divisional Round. We'll start with ascending wide receiver Dyami Brown.
Commanders players who can rubber-stamp new deals in the Divisional Round
Dyami Brown - Commanders WR
The Washington Commanders needed another pass-catcher to step up alongside Terry McLaurin down the stretch and during the playoffs. Dyami Brown took on the challenge and thrived with extra responsibilities on his shoulders.
It looked for a long time as if Brown would never truly maximize the physical gifts in Washington. Concentration and confidence issues blighted his first three years with the team. He spent most of this season on the fringes waiting for an opportunity.
The former third-round selection out of North Carolina kept working hard in readiness for his chance. McLaurin believed he could produce the goods when Noah Brown went down with an injury. Brown didn't disappoint in crunch time when his number was called.
After gradually ramping up his usage over the final few games of 2024, offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury leaned on Brown heavily at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The pass-catcher delivered, bringing in all five of his targets for 89 receiving yards and a touchdown to assist greatly in Washington's thrilling triumph.
Brown's hand-eye coordination and ability to bring in tough catches have come on significantly under improved coaching. If he can build on this newfound momentum in the Divisional Round at the Detroit Lions, a short-term extension won't be too far behind this offseason.