For Super Bowl XXVI Champion Brian Mitchell, expectations are high for the Washington Commanders' 2025 season.
The Commanders are only in their second season under Head Coach Dan Quinn, but with quarterback Jayden Daniels at the helm and a solid foundation of players, there is no room for him to doubt.
"I expect them to make the playoffs," Mitchell said. "And when they get to the playoffs, I expect them to win a game."
Mitchell watched the NFC East dominate throughout his career and having won a Super Bowl, he believes the players are equipped with the mentality and dedication to succeed.
"The reason I expect it is I see people in the proper places," Mitchell said. "They are people that are above average. [Daniels] is above average and when your quarterback is above average and does the things that he does, he gives you a chance. When you watch other guys trying to play up to stay close to what he's doing, your team gets better."
The team brought in several seasoned veterans in through free agency throughout the offseason who meet this standard. Cornerback Jonathan Jones won two Super Bowls with the Patriots and Wide receiver Deebo Samuel Sr. had two Super Bowl appearances with the San Francisco 49ers. The team also added some future hall of famers as well, signing linebacker Von Miller and re-signing linebacker Bobby Wagner.
"That's the way you build the team up," Mitchell said. "I think when you look at the veteran players on this team, you've got [Wagner], a future hall of famer who still is very effective on the football field. You bring in [Miller]. You have all of that around your team, it's a lot easier."
The new additions of the 2025 draft class brought in by general manager Adam Peters also haven't failed to make a positive impression on Mitchell throughout training camp either.
"You go out and Jaylin Lane is making a play. Trey Amos is making plays. You're seeing the young guys that they're picking. They're not only coming in ready to play football; they are young men that are ready to go out there and be professionals."
As a former player, Mitchell explained that it is crucial for all players regardless of experience be on the same page.
"People always say coaches run football teams. No, coaches guide football teams. The players run the football team and when you start setting the standard, everybody else has to fall in line."
With the excitement from last year's surprise playoff run being carried over to this season, this year's new additions to the team have reinforced Mitchell's belief in his high expectations for the 2025 season.
