Commanders reach their first NFC title game since 1991, declare: 'We're not done yet!'

 

Jan 19, 2025, 01:15 PM

DETROIT — After Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin wrapped up his postgame press conference, he stepped away from the podium and let out a jubilant yell—a celebration 33 years in the making for the franchise.

"Wooooooo!" McLaurin exclaimed, shaking his fists with a wide grin as he exited the room.

That excitement followed Washington's commanding 45-31 victory over the Detroit Lions, earning the team its first NFC Championship Game appearance since the 1991 season. The franchise’s drought had been the longest in the conference, a distinction now passed to the rival Dallas Cowboys, who last reached the game in 1995.

"We're not done yet," McLaurin said confidently.

The locker room and its surroundings buzzed with celebration. Former Washington coach Joe Gibbs, minority shareholder Magic Johnson, NBA star Kevin Durant, and award-winning actor Jeffrey Wright joined the festivities. General Manager Adam Peters, in his debut season, made rounds hugging players, while co-owner Mitch Rales enthusiastically congratulated the team. Rales shared a particularly emotional embrace with McLaurin. Co-owner Josh Harris, speaking to reporters, declared, "I'm so happy for the DMV [District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia] ... We're a team of destiny."

This triumphant night belonged to a team that finished 4-13 last year and is now just one win away from the Super Bowl. The Commanders will face either the Los Angeles Rams or the Philadelphia Eagles in next week's NFC Championship Game. For Washington fans, the joy comes after decades of frustration, with the team posting the NFC’s fourth-worst winning percentage from 1992 through 2023. Once a dominant franchise with three Super Bowl wins between 1981 and 1991, the Commanders had struggled to reclaim that glory—until now.

"I'm so excited, not just for myself but for my team," said running back Brian Robinson Jr. "Especially for the guys who have been here through the tough years—it’s amazing."

In his first season at the helm, head coach Dan Quinn has guided the Commanders from what many thought would be a rebuilding year to a resurgence. Quinn referred to the process as a “recalibration,” but it might now be better described as a rejuvenation.

"This is surreal," said linebacker Bobby Wagner, who was born in 1990, just months before the franchise’s last Super Bowl win. Safety Jeremy Reaves, a Commander since 2018, struggled to put the moment into words. "Man, this is cool. I can't even wrap my head around this. No one thought we’d be here. Let’s go!"

At the heart of Washington's remarkable turnaround is rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, who became just the sixth rookie in NFL history to lead a team to the NFC Championship Game. Unlike his predecessors, Daniels has consistently risen to the occasion. Against the Lions, he completed 22 of 31 passes for 299 yards and two touchdowns while adding 51 rushing yards on 16 carries. His clutch performances included two fourth-down conversions on touchdown drives.

"He's so poised and so clutch," said running back Austin Ekeler. "Every week, he shows us how special he is. He’s got that clutch gene, and it shines in big moments."

Daniels' impact on the team extends beyond his on-field talent. His work ethic and leadership have earned the respect of his teammates. "I knew Jay was ready from day one," Robinson said. "He’s prepared for the playoffs and big moments."

Veterans like Wagner, Ekeler, and tight end Zach Ertz have also played pivotal roles. Wagner, a two-time NFC Champion with the Seahawks, credited the team’s resilience during a midseason three-game losing streak that left them at 7-5. "I didn’t see anyone waver," Wagner said. "Everyone stayed focused and became more accountable."

Washington has since reeled off seven straight wins. Key contributions have come from rookies like cornerback Mike Sainristil, who transitioned from nickel corner to a crucial role on the outside, recording two interceptions against Detroit.

Veteran leadership and rising stars like McLaurin, who caught a 58-yard touchdown—his 15th of the season—have propelled Washington’s success. The team’s unity and determination have been evident throughout their journey, particularly during a stretch of close victories decided in the final moments.

"We're heavy hitters, we're poised, and we’re confident," Wagner said. "The belief we have in one another is special."

Head coach Dan Quinn, however, kept the focus on the task ahead. "There will be a time to reflect," Quinn said, "but right now, we’re not done."