Tress Way is back with the Washington Commanders in 2025. The longtime punter and special-teams captain signed a one-year deal ahead of free agency to return to Washington for a 12th season.
Way isn't your average punter. He's the longest-tenured player on Washington's roster, beloved by teammates, coaches, and fans. Not only is Way one of the NFL's best punters, he's also a terrific person. When Way met with the media via Zoom after re-signing, he revealed how special the Commanders made him feel about returning next season.
Way was recently a guest of "Grant & Danny," on 106.7 The Fan in Washington, D.C., and revealed an interesting tidbit regarding the new Commanders' ownership group.
Way and his wife, Brianna, adopted a child last year—a baby boy named Brooks. At the time, the Commanders were on the verge of clinching a playoff berth in Week 17 against the Atlanta Falcons. So, Way had a lot going on off the field. Fortunately for Way, Jayden Daniels and the offense scored so much last season that he didn't need to punt as much as in previous seasons.
Way revealed how supportive the entire Washington organization was during this time.
"Right around the time we clinched the playoffs against the Atlanta Falcons, we get matched for an adoption for a beautiful baby boy," Way said. "And so we make the playoffs, and we know that he was born with a heart condition, and in the midst of the playoffs, he ends up having to have heart surgery, I'm going to Tampa playing, all of these different things, and it's been so fun, so special, this offseason, after such an incredible season."
More from Way:
"For everybody that's been fans of this franchise for a long time, and how special things are right now, in the midst of this crazy family time we had, we were a great team about to go to the playoffs and both AP (GM Adam Peters) and DQ (head coach Dan Quinn) were like, 'Get everything set with family, here's your punt days, you come in when you want to and need to, and then go.' Guys, it is a special place and things are really moving in an awesome direction."
ICYMI yesterday, @Tress_Way told @granthpaulsen an AWESOME story of his newest family addition, and how supportive Commanders brass was of his needs last year. (P.S.: Thanks, Tress, for sharing the great family photo!) pic.twitter.com/NC0g5voQks
— 106.7 The Fan (@1067theFan) March 27, 2025
Washington's new ownership group, led by Josh Harris, has received high marks. In the recent NFLPA player survey, Washington made a huge jump under the Harris Ownership Group regarding how they treated families. Way's situation proves they are doing everything right.
One more detail from Way, where he singled out minority owner Mitch Rales.
"This is just a special place…the owners were texting me and asking about the baby boy. It is unbelievable,” Way said via
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