By the time Week 17 rolls around, it seems like half the league is celebrating. Most franchises have a clear direction moving forward, whether it be into the playoffs or toward the No. 1 pick. For those who exceed expectations, Christmas indeed becomes the most wonderful time of the year.
The Washington Commanders were undeniably one of the darlings of the 2024 campaign. After drafting second overall, the team immediately caught fire and inserted itself in the playoff conversation, largely thanks to an incredible season by inarguable Offensive Rookie of the Year Jayden Daniels.
As the Commanders celebrated their official playoff berth after a Week 17 win, safety Jeremy Reaves had another milestone in mind.
Jeremy Reaves Steals the Show in Week 17
The Commanders battled with the Atlanta Falcons, with both teams needing victories to solidify their playoff standing. For Washington, a win guaranteed its spot in the postseason, whereas Atlanta would have inched closer to an NFC South title. Daniels led a game-winning drive in overtime to win 30-24.
After the game, Reaves — a veteran on a team headlined by youngsters — won everyone’s hearts. As the Commanders clinched a spot in the playoffs, Reaves had one more heart to win. Going to the sideline, he found his girlfriend and went down on one knee.
A post-clinch proposal!! 💍🥹
Congrats to @JR1ERA and his fiancée! pic.twitter.com/f2gvIVoEDJ
— NFL (@NFL) December 30, 2024
As the stadium erupted in cheers, Mikaela Worley, said “yes,” with announcer Mike Tirico commentating the moment.
“Of course, she said yes,” Tirico joked. “You’re in the playoffs now.” The excitement, however, wasn’t bound to just fans and the couple.
Fellow players like Tress Way jumped around in excitement for the happy couple, especially given his fellow special teamers’ arduous journey to success in the league. Coming in as an undrafted free agent, Reaves barely made it onto rosters in his first four seasons.
However, after finally getting the opportunity with the Commanders in 2022, he was explosive in his “debut” season. Earning Pro Bowl and All-Pro selections as a special teams starter, he emerged as an under-the-radar star. It’s safe to say the journey has paid off.
As he celebrates his team’s playoff berth and engagement with Worley — his girlfriend of 18 months — it is a hard time to not cheer for the once-undrafted safety.