Feb. 20, 2026, 9:46 a.m. ET
It’s rare when praise travels across enemy lines in the NFC East, but that’s exactly what happened this week. Jayden Daniels, franchise signal-caller for the Washington Commanders and a rising face of the division, offered respect for one of the league’s most polarizing fan bases: those who support the Philadelphia Eagles.
That’s what happened when Sports Illustrated sat with Daniels for an interview. He acknowledged the obvious truth that players around the league eventually learn.
Jayden Daniels has absolutely no problem with Eagles fans.
Philadelphia is a tough place to play, but the passion is real, and the energy is unmatched when things are rolling. Coming from a direct rival who knows the ins and outs of a longtime feud, that kind of compliment carries more weight. It isn’t manufactured. It’s earned through experience.
Well said, Mr. Daniels. Well said… Those are the words of a young man who enjoys competition but can still respect his opponent.
Expert NFL picks: Exclusive betting insights only at USA TODAY.
That perspective also stands in contrast to earlier comments by Jared Verse of the Los Angeles Rams, among others, who initially took a shot at Eagles fans. Things cooled, and he’d later soften his stance and walk things back.
That sequence has become familiar. Players talk tough, emotions flare, and then reality sets in once they experience the environment firsthand. Competing in Philadelphia can feel hostile, but hostility and passion aren’t the same thing — and veterans around the league understand the difference.
Eagles supporters, for their part, are probably tired of being reduced to tired stereotypes anyway. The snowballs-at-Santa-Claus story gets dragged out every season, as if it happened last week instead of generations ago. What gets ignored is the loyalty, the football knowledge, and the willingness to ride through highs and lows with the team. Players notice that. Opponents definitely feel it.
From a rivalry standpoint, Daniels’ comments don’t mean anyone is exchanging holiday cards anytime soon. NFC East games will remain emotional, physical, and loud. That’s exactly how fans want them, but moments like this do show a layer of respect that exists beneath the surface animosity. Competitors recognize competitors.
And if Daniels continues developing the way many expect, he’ll hear plenty more from Eagles fans in the years ahead. That’s part of the deal when you play in this division. The boos come with the territory, but so does the respect when you earn it.