ASHBURN, Va. -- Back in the spring, well before Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels had been named the team's starter, veteran teammates such as tight end Zach Ertz and wide receiver Terry McLaurin had a feeling the rookie would excel in the NFL.

Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn gave his props to the Lions fans but still must deal with the bad injury news about Sam Cosmi. However, Jayden Daniels got a “ best rookie year ” label from Texans quarterback C.J. Stroud, according to a post on X by Jordan Schultz.

DETROIT — Jayden Daniels threw for two touchdowns in a flawless performance by Washington’s dazzling rookie, and the Commanders stunned the Detroit Lions 45-31 on Saturday night to reach the NFC championship game for the first time since winning the Super Bowl 33 years ago.