The Washington Commanders went from a dysfunctional franchise to one of the league's most revered in the blink of an eye. One of the team's cornerstone features throughout some dark days lifted the lid on what made these drastic alterations possible (and successful).
Josh Harris' ownership group changed everything. They outlined their ambitions immediately after wrestling the Commanders from Dan Snyder's toxic grasp. They hired the right people to put their plans into action. What followed was better than even the brightest optimist anticipated in Year 1.
The Commanders went from having the No. 2 overall selection in the 2024 NFL Draft to the NFC Championship game in one year. Adam Peters' masterful roster construction and Dan Quinn's culture shift took this sleeping giant to heights not seen for decades. It was the most promising start imaginable — one that could signify the beginning of a prosperous era in Washington's illustrious football heritage.
Commanders' new regime built trust and ambition during first year of change
Tress Way delved deeper into what made this season special when speaking to John Keim of ESPN. The Pro Bowl punter highlighted Quinn's humble approach, competitive spirit, and the importance of building relationships as the primary factors behind Washington's rapid-fire resurgence into contention. And the results spoke for themselves.
"The facilities [are] being built to just 24/7 build camaraderie, build a bond, build a trust within one another within the organization. And so I think it's pretty evident if you get to spend a season there. I think that DQ's humble approach of full-send competitiveness into every single game, hyper-focused on what we do, made it so free to go play. At no point did he ever get up there and be like, 'We're going to go beat this team by 30.' I love his line. He always says, 'I don't care if it's four quarters, five quarters, or if it goes all the way to the parking lot—we're just going to keep fighting the whole time.'"
Tress Way via SI
This is a common theme coming from players. It probably meant a lot more to Way, who saw the franchise at its darkest and basked in this newfound adulation around the league. The little things are making a big difference, which was further reflected when the team's longest-serving player came in to sign his new deal.
Way entered the building to widespread applause, and senior leadership congratulated him on receiving a well-deserved commitment from the organization. Peters and Quinn were there, which proves their commitment to making every player feel a sense of belonging.
The veteran freely admitted that he never knew things could be done in this manner. Way appreciate the gesture, but it's yet more proof of the collective purpose around the team. Treating everyone the same in pursuit of one common goal represents the biggest breath of fresh air imaginable.
It's what made the Commanders an attractive destination again. It's what turned this laughingstock into a legitimate contender. It's what will ensure this fleeting promise becomes something sustainable.
Way is happy to be along for the ride. He'd probably given up hope of any more meaningful memories as the Commanders plunged into the proverbial football abyss under Snyder's watch. Everything has changed, and he's savoring every moment.
Long may it continue.
