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.

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.

The Washington Commanders are off to the NFC Championship Game for the first time since 1992, and rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels is a major reason for that turnaround. So, you best believe that a leader like Zach Ertz isn't going to let a dirty hit on

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

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.

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

During the divisional round of the playoffs last weekend, Washington Commanders tight end Zach Ertz was mic'd up for the event. Ertz is the consummate team player and will always defend his quarterback,

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

Taking this loss pretty hard,” Daniels said. “But having those guys around and be able to just uplift other individuals in the locker room, I appreciate them a lot.”