By james art 
Picture this: NFL players actually are I ask to come to Washington. After years of being considered one of the least desirable franchises in the league, players now have the Washington Commanders at the top of their trade wish lists. According to ESPN sources, multiple players have even communicated privately with their agents that they want a deal with Washington. At the heart of it all is rookie quarterback Jaden Daniels, whose outstanding performances help make the Commanders a team to watch.
Daniels, the No. 2 pick in this year’s draft, is proving he’s more than hype. He’s currently completing 71.8 percent of his passes — the second-best percentage in the NFL — for 1,736 yards and seven touchdowns, with just two interceptions. And he’s a dual threat: Daniels also rushed for 424 yards and four touchdowns. According to ESPN Research, he is just the second player in NFL history to reach 1,500 passing and 400 yards rushing in his first eight career games, joining the Commanders’ Robert Griffin III in 2012.
His latest highlight? A stunning 52-yard Hail Mary touchdown pass to Noah Brown last Sunday to set up a last-second 18-15 victory for Washington over the Chicago Bears. Daniels’ poise in such moments has made him an early contender not only for NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, but even an MVP candidate.
But the change in commanders goes beyond just Daniels. With new ownership, a new coaching staff and a whole new attitude, Washington has an opportunity to rewrite its history. Now 6-2 and leading the NFC East, the Commanders have gone from an NFL afterthought to a place players want to be. They are 4-0 at home for the first time since 2005, exuding a pride and energy not seen in Washington in years. Daniels’ leadership, both in his game and in his quiet confidence off the field, brought a stability that resonated throughout the lineup.
As the trade deadline nears, the Commanders staff is actively exploring trades for cornerbacks and wide receivers, signaling their commitment to maintaining the team’s momentum. Even if no deal is completed by Tuesday’s deadline, Washington’s new reputation bodes well for free agency and future seasons.
For the first time in years, Washington has a real sense of promise and power, and it’s clear that this team – with Daniels at the helm – is building something special.
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