Commander Country

Jayden Daniels sends hopeful message to Commanders fans going into next season

After a tough NFC Championship loss, Jayden Daniels reflects on the power of the fan base and what it means for the Commanders' future.

Joanne Coley

Jan 26, 2025; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) before the NFC Championship game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
Jan 26, 2025; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) before the NFC Championship game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images / Bill Streicher-Imagn Images
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After the Washington Commanders' tough loss to the Philadelphia Eagles in the NFC Championship, rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels reflected on the fan base that has left a lasting impression on him in his debut season.

The Commanders had an impressive 12-5 record in the regular season, but their hopes for a Super Bowl were thrown away in their battle with the Eagles.

Despite the painful ending, Daniels is looking ahead with optimism, particularly when it comes to the bond between Washington and its fan base.

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels
Jan 26, 2025; Philadelphia, PA, USA; Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels (5) before the NFC Championship game at Lincoln Financial Field. Mandatory Credit: Bill Streicher-Imagn Images / Bill Streicher-Imagn Images

"We woke a sleeping giant," Daniels said. "Hopefully we can keep building on that next year. You know, we're going to need all their support when the season comes back around."

This year has been a game-changer for the Washington Commanders. It's not just about the stats or the wins—it's about the culture shift.

Daniels stepped in and made an immediate impact. What started as a team trying to find its identity evolved into one that inspired its fan base and captured the hearts of passionate Commanders fans.

The energy in Northwest Stadium this season was intense, with fans rallying behind Washington, especially with a rookie quarterback showing poise and leadership far beyond his years.

Even in the face of disappointment after the NFC Championship, Daniels is acutely aware of the fans' impact on the team's growth. Their unwavering support has been a constant source of motivation, and he's aware that it'll be crucial for the Commanders continued growth.

The Commanders journey doesn't end with this season's loss. The work doesn't stop here, and Daniels knows the real support will always come from the people who have been waiting for this moment.

READ MORE: Commanders take National Champion OT in mock draft

Stick with CommanderGameday and the Locked On Commanders podcast for more FREE coverage of the Washington Commanders throughout the 2024 season.

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Joane Coley
JOANNE COLEY

Joanne Coley, from Prince George’s County, MD, is a communications professional passionate about storytelling and sports. She holds a bachelor’s in Communications from Kent State University and a Master’s in Communications/Public Relations from Southern New Hampshire University. Since 2018, she has served as Communications Manager at the Council of the Great City Schools. A foodie and traveler, Joanne is also a former state champion in high school shotput and standout athlete in softball.

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