Things couldn't have gone much better for the Washington Commanders in 2024. The franchise looks unrecognizable after a complete teardown from top to bottom across the football operation and behind the scenes. Their turnaround has captivated fans and earned respect around the league.
It's been a long time since the Commanders were held in this regard. They descended into chaos and became a national disgrace under Dan Snyder's ownership. That's not the case anymore.
Josh Harris and his wealthy benefactors installed professionalism and belief again. They trusted Adam Peters and Dan Quinn to turn things around on the football side. Most analysts expected improvements of some kind. Nobody anticipated such a drastic change in fortunes.
The Commanders are in the playoffs for the first time since 2020. They've achieved 11 wins — a feat not accomplished since 1991. Fans are galvanized and the organization is reportedly a coveted destination for veteran players wanting to join this ambitious project. The long-term outlook of this once-downtrodden franchise is extremely promising.
Some players have come to the fore at the best possible time. With this in mind, here are five emerging Commanders franchise cornerstones from an enthralling 2024 campaign.
Where else could we start than rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels?
Commanders future cornerstones from memorable 2024 campaign
Jayden Daniels - Commanders QB
There are several factors behind the Washington Commanders' impressive resurgence this season. None are more important than first-year quarterback Jayden Daniels.
The No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft has taken the league by storm right out of the gate. Daniels' poise, composure under pressure and ability to come through in the clutch dragged the Commanders from obscurity and into the playoffs. He's a legitimate closer who thrives in the biggest moments.
Daniels is reaching levels not seen by a Washington quarterback since Robert Griffin III's rookie season. He's the complete package and is only going to get better once his supporting cast improves. That's a scary proposition for the league but great news for the Commanders.
Washington must do everything in its power to maximize Daniels' first contract. Things are going to get a lot more expensive after that if the same trend continues. Striking while the iron is hot is something general manager Adam Peters must accomplish effectively in the coming years.
The Heisman Trophy winner out of LSU is a superstar. Daniels represents everything good about the Commanders — a beacon of hope where once there was nothing but abject misery.