For years when the words the Washington Football team or even the Redskins were mentioned in conversation, the only response was a laugh. But it seems that along with a new name and brand, the team is actually shaping up to be something to boast about, not shy away from. We ended the 2019 season with a 3-13 record, an all time low since the 1960s – and this pattern continued in 2020. However, the tides are finally changing.
Coach Dan Quinn was hired in 2024 to the delight of many Commanders fans, and he’s been one of the main reasons our team is performing at this new level. He spent the first two years of his coaching tenure rebuilding, or as he likes to say, reconstructing. The ultimate goal is a team full of players that are notable, competitive and, most importantly, skilled. But how do we get there?
Almost everyone credits the draft of Jayden Daniels, the starting quarterback, as the obvious turning point for the Commanders, but that was just one piece of the puzzle. When you zoom out, it is clear that the progress they made is due to the contributions of lots of new players, coaches, and staff. Communication, training, and building up skill has been essential, and it’s finally paying off.
Dan Quinn recognizes that an integral part of success for the team is building community, both on and off the field. With new rookies like Josh Conerly Jr and Jaylin Lane this season and Luke McCaffery and others last season, creating community within players is the foundation of the team. These players are super important to the team’s success, and their high level performance is due to their confidence built through practice and camaraderie. However, Quinn also understands that veterans like Von Miller and Reeves are not only formative for the team’s in-game performance, they also serve as mentors to rookies and younger players fresh off their D1 college careers. The balance of new and old, veteran and rookie is all part of the dynamic that helps our team achieve excellence.
Last season, the Commanders went 12-5 and made it to the playoffs, getting beat in the NFC championship by the Eagles in a devastating–but not so unexpected–loss. This was the first time in years Commanders fans were able to cheer on their team in the playoffs, which generated a lot of excitement for the 2025-26 season. This season has started off strong, giving fans high hopes for what’s to come. So as we continue to cheer them on in the sidelines, we hope developments continue throughout this season and carry us to win in games ahead.