It's been a renaissance that will live long in the memory of every Washington Commanders fan. Dan Quinn's men are on a positivity surge beyond the wildest dreams of any supporter over the first half of 2024. They've already eclipsed last season's win total and their ambitions are growing larger with every passing success.
Nobody is getting too carried away, even though that's becoming increasingly difficult. The Commanders are flying high at 6-2 with speculation about buying at the trade deadline rather than selling. This is a strange feeling given the misery typically attached to the organization. Things are different now.
These improved results and enhanced culture aren't going unnoticed by those around the league. Washington is gaining positive national media attention for the first time in years. Analysts are jumping on the bandwagon before it's too late, believing the Commanders are building something sustainable that could potentially result in surprising achievements in Year 1 of this extensive rebuild.
Luke Kuechly believes Commanders are favored to win NFC East
Add Luke Kuechly to the growing list of names with notable excitement about what's unfolding in Washington. The former All-Pro linebacker likes what he sees from the Commanders under Quinn's guidance. He also believes they are favorites to win the NFC East if their sensational run of results continues.
"I like them. I like the energy. I've always liked Dan Quinn. I've always liked his energy. I think guys play really hard for him. At the end of that game, they showed Dan Quinn and Frankie Luvu. Frankie was here [Carolina Panthers] for a while. I love him, [Bobby] Wagner, Terry McLaurin. All you've ever heard about Terry; works extremely hard, super talented, never complains, great leader. For him and this team to have success, there are just so many good stories. About good dudes, guys that have played hard, and gone through the wringer. Right now I think they're rolling and the favorite in that division."
- Luke Kuechly via Up and Adams Show
These glowing endorsements aren't hard to find. The Commanders are thoroughly deserving of all the plaudits coming their way. Considering how much Kuechly knows about football and the fact he could potentially be a first-ballot Pro Football Hall of Famer in 2025, this should carry more weight than most.
What's important for the Commanders - something they've done impressively amid such ongoing adulation - is not believing their hype. That is the most crucial element above all else.
Keeping the bigger goals in mind and taking things one day at a time. Maintaining a sense of professionalism and worrying about what's immediately in front of them and nothing more. It's been a recipe for success so far. Hopefully, the same trend will continue as the season progresses.
This is why the Commanders hired Quinn. He's a respected leader and an exceptional motivator. He's also gone through some ups and downs over his coaching career, so he'll know how pivotal it is to keep everyone on an even keel.
It's been a long time since the Commanders had anything legitimate to cheer. Praise and bold predictions aplenty count for nothing if Washington doesn't follow through on this initial promise.
Thankfully, there are enough experienced figures in the building to ensure their ever-changing objectives are met.
