As the NFL awaits the debut of rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels on the field, one aspect of his game has already been decided, courtesy of Tress Way, the Washington Commanders’ team captain and punter.
Way, who has been a mainstay with the Commanders since 2014, has consistently sported the No. 5 jersey throughout his tenure in Washington. However, this tradition is set to change in 2024. While Way’s new number is yet to be determined, the seasoned punter graciously offered his cherished No. 5 to Daniels, the Commanders’ promising new quarterback, for a modest fee.
In many cases, players might demand substantial financial compensation for relinquishing their number to a new teammate, such as Jimmy Clausen’s $1 million request from Cam Newton upon his arrival at the Carolina Panthers. However, Way’s asking price was quite reasonable.
In exchange for wearing the No. 5 in the upcoming season, Daniels has agreed to provide Way and his family with tickets to an Oklahoma-LSU college football game once Way retires. While this gesture may seem small compared to Daniels’ rookie salary, it holds sentimental significance due to Way’s alma mater, the University of Oklahoma, and Daniels’ Heisman Trophy-winning tenure at LSU.
Although Daniels has a personal history with the No. 5, having worn it throughout high school, his time at Arizona State, and his stint at LSU, the number carries special meaning for Way. He chose it upon signing with an NFL team for the first time and has cherished it ever since.
Despite his attachment to the number, Way believed that offering it to the new face of the franchise was the right decision as team captain.
