NFL
By: Ryan Cooley
Adam Peters’ first job in Washington was to find a new head coach to lead the Commanders. After interviewing/being linked to at least eight candidates, the search ended with Dan Quinn. Quinn has spent the past three seasons as the Cowboys defensive coordinator. In that time, he led Dallas’ defense to be top 10 in scoring all three years. They also finished 1st in forced turnovers in 2 of his 3 seasons.
This article will look at how the coaching search went and my expectations/opinions on Dan Quinn.
How Washington’s Search Went
Most assumed the Washington gig was Ben Johnson’s to lose. After turning down teams last offseason, Johnson was considered the most coveted candidate this year. Throughout the playoffs, Washington fans were waiting for the Lions to lose so they could make the hiring official. After their loss to the 49ers, Johnson’s betting odds increased to -1000 to be Washington’s next head coach.
However, on January 30th, Johnson informed teams that he would once again return to Detriot for another season as their offensive coordinator. Washington would now need to find another option. Unfortunately, nearly every other team had already filled its head coach opening, meaning options were limited. Texans OC Bobby Slowik a day later announced he was also staying put. Ravens DC Mike Macdonald was the only top candidate still on the table. However, he chose Seattle over Washington.
This left Dan Quinn, Aaron Glenn (Lions DC), and Anthony Weaver (Ravens defensive line coach and assistant HC). Washington quickly settled on Dan Quinn.
Overall, I found the head coach search and results to be underwhelming. Reports are coming out claiming that Washington wasn’t impressed with Johnson after interviewing him. Some say Johnson only wanted the Chargers job. Whatever the reason, it is disappointing that Washington was unable to land any of the top candidates. Especially considering this was considered one of the best/most desirable openings.
Opinion/Expectations for Quinn
While Quinn was not most people’s 1st, 2nd, or even 3rd choice, I don’t think it’s a bad hire. While underwhelming, we know Quinn won’t be a train wreck. Coaches and players across the league praise Quinn for his leadership.
Many compare Quinn to Rivera. I agree they are very similar in terms of background and both being well-respected. However, there is a big difference between the two hirings and that is the situation they are walking into. Rivera walked into a disaster and was tasked to do everything. Be the head coach and GM while also changing the culture of the most toxic organization in sports. Quinn will be able to focus on just coaching.
Dan Quinn is not a coach I believe can take a mediocre roster and make them great. However, I also don’t believe he will waste talent. He will certainly improve the defense that was dead last in nearly every category in 2023. The main question that remains is who he will bring in as the offensive coordinator. If they can hit on the OC and the QB they take at #2, I expect Washington to be a force in 2-3 years.
Dan Quinn is not a home run hire, but I believe that given the right tools from Peters, he can be a good coach in Washington.
