8 Commanders spearheading remarkable franchise culture shift in 2024
By Dean Jones
Dan Quinn - Commanders HC
Many fans and some in the media thought Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson was a near certainty for the Washington Commanders' head coaching job. A late U-turn from the candidate while those in power were in the air to meet him for a second interview led the franchise to Dan Quinn.
The Commanders were always extremely high on Quinn. They felt this was the right leader to guide them into a prosperous new era. He was eager to make the most of a second opportunity. Everyone bought in quickly thanks to his passionate teachings and preaching of the importance of building relationships within their brotherhood.
The results have been immediate. It's not just the results, which are night and day from previous regimes. It's the vibrant atmosphere within the locker room and how each player is fighting for one another. That's the biggest positive above all else.
Sam Cosmi acknowledged that being part of a genuine culture wasn't something he's experienced previously. He's adjusted and is embracing the changing tide, which is something Quinn deserves enormous credit for.
Josh Harris - Commanders owner
It took a long time for someone to wrestle the Commanders from Dan Snyder's grasp. Even with the constant stream of allegations and scandals he brought to the organization, he stayed in power and the franchise descended into decay. Frustrations reached a boiling point in 2023 and he eventually sold to Josh Harris' ownership group.
Harris and his wealthy benefactors spent the first few months assessing the organization and forming plans for the future. They acted swiftly once the 2023 campaign concluded, implementing their strategy and vastly improving the infrastructure.
His previous experience owning sports franchises helped. Harris was an interested onlooker rather than being heavily involved in the recruitment process. He allowed the football men to make the decisions, providing them with anything they needed and sparing no expense in pursuit of one common goal.
This was no more evident than in Week 4. Harris likely spent huge sums for the Commanders to stay in Arizona and practice at Arizona State University before their game against the Cardinals. That wasn't cheap, but it came with a resounding victory.
Washington is in good hands with Harris. And with any culture shift, it starts at the very top.
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