The Washington Commanders have reached the NFC championship game, capping off an extraordinary turnaround after a dismal 4-13 season in 2023. Following a complete organizational overhaul, the team finished the 2024 regular season 12-5 and won two playoff games, marking their deepest postseason run in over 30 years.
A pivotal offseason
Jan. 8, 2024
Head coach Ron Rivera was dismissed after a disappointing 2023 campaign. New owner Josh Harris initiated sweeping changes, enlisting former NBA executive Bob Myers and ex-Vikings GM Rick Spielman to lead the search for a fresh leadership team.
Feb. 1, 2024
Dan Quinn was named head coach, praised for his defensive expertise and leadership. The team also brought in Kliff Kingsbury and Joe Whitt Jr. as offensive and defensive coordinators.
April 26, 2024
The Commanders selected LSU quarterback Jayden Daniels with the second overall pick in the NFL Draft, a decision that would become the cornerstone of their resurgence.
Early struggles and defining moments
Sept. 7, 2024
Daniels made his NFL debut with two rushing touchdowns but faced criticism for his reliance on running. By late September, he silenced doubters with a record-setting performance against the Bengals, completing 91.3% of his passes in a dramatic win.
Nov. 3, 2024
A thrilling victory over the Giants pushed Washington to 7-2, their best start in nearly three decades. The acquisition of Pro Bowl cornerback Marshon Lattimore further solidified the defense.
Late-season challenges and a playoff push
Dec. 1, 2024
After a three-game skid, Daniels delivered a dominant performance against Tennessee, reigniting Washington’s playoff hopes.
Dec. 29, 2024
In a must-win game, Daniels connected with Zach Ertz for a decisive overtime touchdown, securing the Commanders’ playoff berth.
Postseason success
Jan. 12, 2025
A narrow wild-card victory over Tampa Bay broke a 19-year playoff drought.
Jan. 18, 2025
The Commanders stunned the top-seeded Detroit Lions, forcing five turnovers en route to a 45-31 win. Terry McLaurin’s 58-yard touchdown highlighted an unforgettable performance, earning Washington their first NFC championship berth since the 1991 season.
A historic turnaround
The Commanders’ remarkable journey to the NFC championship game is a testament to bold leadership decisions, impactful roster moves, and the emergence of a franchise quarterback in Jayden Daniels. Fans now eagerly await the next chapter in this inspiring comeback story.
