The hard work starts now for new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones and the Washington Commanders. Their painstaking search to find a replacement for Joe Whitt Jr. is over. And considering the pressure on head coach Dan Quinn to turn the tide in 2026, his choice needs to hit the ground running in no uncertain terms.
Jones doesn't have any NFL play-calling experience. However, he's well-traveled, working his way from the bottom as a high school coach to earn this significant opportunity. He's also worked with some exceptional minds along the way, which will only serve him well in the Washington pressure cooker.
There will be a new scheme. If it's anything like the one he spent time under Minnesota Vikings defensive coordinator Brian Flores working on, it'll be creative and aggressive. Before he starts to work with the players on that, enhancing the personnel is paramount.
General manager Adam Peters will likely consult with Jones on schematic concepts and potential free-agent or draft targets who can help put his grand plans into action. And the ascending coach could turn to familiar faces to ensure this critical transition goes smoothly.
With this in mind, here are seven players Jones knows well who could follow the coordinator to the Commanders in 2026.
Intriguing players who could follow Daronte Jones to the Commanders
Commanders could sign Tavierre Thomas
Most experts believe Daronte Jones' scheme will require versatile defensive backs who can switch spots frequently with minimal fuss. There aren't many of those on the squad right now, but the Washington Commanders have plenty of options available in free agency or the draft if those in power decide that more is needed.
Tavierre Thomas could be a solid piece that would cost almost nothing. He's worked with Jones before on the Minnesota Vikings. Although he didn't play all that much on the defensive rotation last season, he flashed some decent capabilities. His exceptional work on special teams has also received significant praise.
This might be a little too similar to Jeremy Reaves' potential outlook moving forward. The All-Pro special-teamer played a lot on the defensive rotation last season due to injuries. He was never found wanting for effort, but that shouldn't stop the Commanders from seeking an upgrade or two. Whether Thomas represents that is highly debatable, but he'd be able to slot into the scheme seamlessly if nothing else.
Jones's work in developing defensive backs is renowned. If he thinks Thomas can help in the short term, giving him a one-year deal to find out for sure seems feasible.