The Washington Commanders surprised everybody this season.
This team had won just four games in the season prior.
And while Jayden Daniels looked like a promising prospect, not many people thought he would be able to lead this team to the NFC Championship Game in his rookie season.
That’s why veteran tight end Zach Ertz tipped his hat to him after the loss.
Addressing the media, the 34-year-old admitted that he wished he were 12 years younger to play his entire career with Daniels (via Sam Fortier):
“I wish I was 22 playing with him, had my whole career in front of me playing with them.”
TE Zach Ertz on the bond he developed with his Commanders teammates and QB Jayden Daniels:
“I wish I was 22 playing with him, had my whole career in front of me playing with them.” pic.twitter.com/JaN9tcjVk8
— Sam Fortier (@Sam4TR) January 27, 2025
The Commanders found a special player, and not just because of what he’s done on the field.
Daniels’ demeanor helped him become a team leader right away.
He wasn’t too big on himself or too carried away by his newly-found stardom, but he was confident enough to take a step forward, be vocal, and uplift everybody around him.
The Commanders clearly hoped for a different outcome in the biggest game of the season, but this proved that they were doing things well.
Daniels wasn’t your typical rookie, and although some players experience a downturn after their first year in the league, it appears this will be the worst version we ever see of him.
Zach Ertz is on the downside of his career and might not even be back next season.
But if that’s the case, at least he will be able to look back and celebrate the fact that he was able to play with Jayden Daniels once it’s all said and done.
NEXT: Jayden Daniels Has Honest Admission About Loss To Eagles
