ASHBURN, Va. — Following their playoff qualification, Washington Commanders coach Dan Quinn emphasized to his players the importance of their upcoming regular-season finale, which presents a significant opportunity to secure the NFC’s sixth seed.

Winning their next game against Dallas will guarantee them a wild-card matchup, either against Tampa Bay, should they clinch the NFC South, or the Los Angeles Rams, the NFC West champions. Conversely, a loss or tie—unless the Green Bay Packers fall to the Chicago Bears—would lead them to face the NFC East champions, Philadelphia Eagles. Thus, the Commanders will put their full roster on the field.

“We’re going to attack this challenge with all we’ve got,” Quinn stated. “Securing the sixth seed holds great value for us as we head into the playoffs, and we’ll exert every effort to achieve that.”

The Commanders’ position improved after their dramatic overtime victory against Atlanta and the Packers’ defeat in Minnesota. If the Rams triumph over Seattle or Tampa Bay loses to New Orleans, they will secure the third seed.

“We are determined to maintain our current position, so there’s plenty on the line,” safety Quan Martin remarked after practice this past Wednesday.

Quinn reflected on a month ago when the team was 7-5, merely aiming for postseason qualification. Following four consecutive victories, bringing their record to 11-5, the focus has shifted toward optimizing their playoff route.

“This week, it’s vital to emphasize that,” right guard Sam Cosmi noted, adding additional motivation stemming from their earlier loss to the Cowboys on November 24. “They got the best of us at home. Now, it’s our turn to challenge them on their turf. We have that in mind. It’s a divisional clash, and it’s the Cowboys—we’re ready to rise to the occasion.”

The Commanders may welcome back running back Austin Ekeler, who suffered a concussion during the last game. His practice window was opened Wednesday, and the 29-year-old can return from injured reserve this weekend after four games on the sidelines.

“Having him back on the field is exciting for us,” Quinn shared. “He’s demonstrated great workouts, showcasing his speed. Seeing him back on the field today was impressive; he had a noticeable spring in his step, and we’ll consider the entire process moving forward.”

Washington is enjoying success, primarily due to rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, who has been adept at both running and passing. However, the team’s running backs—Brian Robinson, Chris Rodriguez, and Jeremy McNichols—have averaged just 2.14 yards per carry over the last three outings.

Ekeler’s potential return would introduce a versatile playmaker and a refreshing pace to the running game.

“Austin is a game-changing player; he adds so many dimensions both on the ground and as a receiver,” Daniels remarked. “Other running backs have stepped up in his absence, but getting him back at this point in the season is a significant boost for us.”

While the sixth seed is on his mind, Daniels is staying laser-focused on their approaching game against the Cowboys.

“We aim to win every game,” said Daniels, who has yet to play in the Dallas stadium known as “Jerry World.” “It’s vital for us to conclude the regular season strong, not just for our seeding but also to build momentum.”

Bobby Wagner, a six-time All-Pro linebacker who was part of Seattle’s Super Bowl-winning team over a decade ago under Quinn’s guidance, stressed the importance of entering the playoffs on a positive note, recalling how the Seahawks won their last regular-season contest in 2013.

“We have one game ahead, and that’s what truly matters at this moment,” Wagner pointed out. “Our future is uncertain, but this week is all we can control. We must stay focused and present.”

This sentiment of focus and commitment has spread through the team’s coaching staff and veteran leaders down to the entire locker room.

“We know each other well, and it’s crucial for us to give our best effort as the season wraps up,” Robinson expressed. “Finishing strong is key, and we’re motivated to maintain that sense of determination.”