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.

As the Commanders prepare for their NFC Championship matchup with the Eagles, Zach Ertz explains why he compares JD5 to Andrew Luck.

Veteran Commanders tight end Zach Ertz knows all about the importance of keeping Daniels healthy in order for the franchise to deliver a Super Bowl, so it's no surprise that he was steamed over a hit that Detroit Lions defensive end Josh Paschal delivered on his quarterback in last Saturday's NFC divisional round playoff game.

During Saturday’s NFC divisional round win over the Lions, Detroit defensive end Josh Paschal was flagged for unnecessary roughness after he went up high on a hit to Daniels’ helmet. The Commanders quarterback was fine despite the penalty, but Ertz immediately came to the rookie’s defense.

Commanders tight end Zach Ertz said he knew right away, as early as training camp, that Daniels would be special because of his work ethic and humility. The 24-year-old newcomer also reminded Ertz of a former NFL star. "I compared him to Andrew Luck, which is the ultimate compliment," said Ertz in a report from ESPN's John Keim.

As early as the spring, the Commanders had a feeling Daniels would excel as a rookie. By the end of training camp, they were convinced.

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels passes short right to tight end Zach Ertz who leaps over a defender for an 11-yard gain.

Baltimore's Lamar Jackson, Buffalo's Josh Allen and Washington's Jayden Daniels won't be participating in the Pro Bowl Games this week.

Zach Ertz was terrific for the Washington Commanders in their NFC championship loss to the Philadelphia Eagles. The longtime former Eagle caught 11 passes for 104 yards against his former team. It was his first 100-yard game of the season.

Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen certainly are going to do their part. And Saquon Barkley might have his own chapter in the Commanders' defensive game plan. Nobody doubts the significance

Former Philadelphia Eagles tight end Zach Ertz says the Washington Commanders helped him “fall back in love with the game again.”