Jeremy Chinn - Commanders S
Taking a chance on Jeremy Chinn in free agency was a masterstroke by the Washington Commanders. The athletic safety became an afterthought with the Carolina Panthers after defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero didn't think he was a good scheme fit within his 3-4 base system. He's gone a long way to silencing his doubters.
Chinn reportedly turned down more money from the Pittsburgh Steelers to join the Commanders. The former second-round pick thought this environment, Dan Quinn's scheme and an instant reunion with Frankie Luvu made more sense. It's hard to argue against that right now.
The Commanders must be thrilled with Chinn's overall contribution this season. He's explosive and instinctive against the run, making big plays and providing a sense of urgency that was sorely lacking on the backend previously. There are some lapses in coverage on occasion, but even that often suspect part of his game has progressed down the stretch.
More importantly, Chinn's got his swagger back. He's grown in confidence and emerging as a leader within the locker room. While the Southern Illinois product isn't the most flamboyant or vocal, leading by example is exactly the sort of presence Quinn wanted as part of his remarkable culture shift.
If Chinn can extend his positive performances during the playoffs, the Commanders' decision to offer him an extension will be easy.
Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB
Had it not been for Jayden Daniels, the Commanders might have fallen at the final hurdle in their quest to make the postseason. But the rookie quarterback wasn't going to let that happen.
Daniels willed the Commanders to an impressive end of the season, cementing his status among the NFL's elite and the most trusted closers in the business. It continued his meteoric rise to superstardom and left no doubt about his importance to this franchise long term.
The accolades and praise were in plentiful supply for Daniels throughout a rookie campaign to remember. He's more interested in helping the team, which should stand him in good stead heading into his first playoff encounter.
Kliff Kingsbury trusts Daniels fully. The players are behind the Heisman Trophy winner and know what a special signal-caller the Commanders have under center at long last. He cannot do it alone in the postseason pressure cooker, but all the former LSU standout needs is a chance to come through for his squad.
Daniels has proven capable of that on countless occasions this season. His poise, accuracy, improvisation, and composure in the biggest moments defy his lack of NFL experience. The Commanders need all that and more to secure success at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.