Tom Brady recently stirred up buzz in the NFL community by naming the Washington Commanders as one of the top five teams in the league.

The seven-time Super Bowl champion’s assessment of the Commanders has intrigued fans and analysts alike, as the team has not been traditionally seen as a powerhouse in recent years. However, Brady’s endorsement brings renewed attention to the Commanders’ promising season and the potential they possess under head coach Ron Rivera.

Brady’s praise likely stems from the Commanders’ visible improvements on both sides of the ball. With young talent emerging and seasoned veterans providing stability, the team has become more balanced and competitive. Quarterback Sam Howell, in particular, has been a revelation for Washington. His poise, strong arm, and willingness to make bold plays have made him a breakout star and given the Commanders a significant boost. Brady, a seasoned quarterback himself, has undoubtedly noticed Howell’s rise and the impact it has had on the Commanders’ offense, which has been one of the most productive in the league.

Defensively, Washington has consistently been formidable, with one of the league’s best defensive lines. Anchored by talents like Jonathan Allen, Daron Payne, and Chase Young, the Commanders’ defensive unit has proven capable of disrupting even the best offenses. Brady is well aware of the value of a solid defense in achieving success; after all, several of his own Super Bowl victories were aided by strong defensive performances. The Commanders’ ability to generate pressure on opposing quarterbacks has been key to their defensive strategy, forcing mistakes and creating scoring opportunities for their offense.

Brady’s endorsement also reflects the broader development of the Commanders as a resilient and cohesive unit under Rivera’s leadership. Rivera has cultivated a winning mentality in Washington, navigating through challenges and controversies to build a team capable of competing against the NFL’s elite. Brady respects the impact of strong coaching, having thrived under Bill Belichick, and it’s likely that he sees Rivera’s approach as pivotal to Washington’s rise.

This season, the Commanders have shown they can compete with top teams, evidenced by their strong performances against tough opponents. Brady’s assessment may seem bold to some, but it underscores Washington’s progress and their potential as playoff contenders. With young stars stepping up and an efficient defense backing them, the Commanders are steadily proving that they belong in the conversation of elite NFL teams. For now, Brady’s comments serve as a boost to Washington’s confidence and as a signal to the rest of the league that the Commanders are a team to be taken seriously.