By james art 
It’s a good time to become a Washington Commanders fan.
On Saturday, ahead of Washington’s 27-22 win over the New York Giants on Sunday, ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported, citing league sources, that NFL players had privately expressed or told their agents about their desire to be captains.
Although specific names were not mentioned in the report, the Commanders could consider certain offers as they look for additional help at cornerback and wide receiver, Schefter added.
With the trade deadline set for Tuesday at 4 p.m. ET, the Commanders have established themselves as a top contender thanks to a concerted effort from new ownership, the front office, the coaching staff under Dan Quinn and rookie quarterback Jaden Daniels.
Daniels played a vital role in Washington’s 7-2 record, with key wins against the Cincinnati Bengals and Chicago Bears helping the team make an announcement in the league.
Brian Robinson Jr. and Terry McLaurin are also thriving on offense, with veterans Zach Ertz and Austin Ekeler showing they still have production in the tank. On defense, veteran Bobby Wagner and Dante Fowler Jr. demonstrate the same.
But the Commanders still have a tough road ahead to continue proving they belong at the top of the NFC crop. They still have to play twice against the Philadelphia Eagles and Dallas Cowboys. Even with the latter struggling hard, divisional games are rarely straightforward.
Back-to-back games against the Pittsburgh Steelers and Atlanta Falcons will also put Washington to the test, although rumors of players wanting to be Commanders indicate the team is on the rise, which is important for a franchise that has made just two trips to the postseason since 2015.
Here are five things to know about LSU linebacker Jaden Daniels.