Washington Commanders punter and team captain Tress Way had the surprise of the day Thursday.
In his 12 NFL seasons, Way has played in 196 regular-season games. On Thursday, he surprised Washington media and the Commanders fan base by saying this 2026 season will be his last in the NFL.
“Just the memories with the guys are awesome, said Way. “Pro Bowls are sweet. Way seemed to have a few things on his mind as he jumped from thought to thought. "That’ll be... having that the rest of my life. You know a few jerseys hanging up that is... That will be really special for me. And this year is special because I am pretty sure this is going to be my last season.”
Way punted as an Oklahoma Sooner and went undrafted back in 2014. The Bears gave Way his first
shot at the NFL by signing him as an undrafted free agent. However, the Bears decided Way wasn’t going to be their punter. Washington then snatched up Way, and in his rookie season he punted for 47.5 yards per punt, leading the NFL that season.
Pro Bowler and MVP Tress Way!pic.twitter.com/5jTFav4wUh
— COMMANDERS FOOTBALL (@HogsHaven) December 25, 2025
"I talked with AP (Adam Peters) and DQ (Dan Quinn) and just kind of gave them a heads-up. I didn’t want to just spring that on them. It’s just one of those...taking it all in. I feel like everyone is cutting onions all the time around here.”
“When I got claimed on the waiver wire, I just felt wanted here. I’ve felt wanted here my whole career. I didn’t want to play anywhere else.”
Way is loved by his teammates and coaches. When starting safety Jeremy Reaves was asked about this being Way’s last season, he said he and his wife spend time with the Ways and their children. Reaves then choked up with emotion.
Way also led the NFL in yards per punt in his 2019 season when he bombed punts at a 49.6 average, his career best. Way has missed only one game in 12 seasons. He will begin his 13th and likely final NFL season on Sunday.
This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Commanders’ captain announces 2026 is likely his final NFL season
