The Washington Commanders already have their new offensive coordinator in place after promoting interim quarterbacks coach David Blough to the role. This suggests that head coach Dan Quinn wants to wrap up these appointments quickly before a crucial offseason.
Next on Quinn's to-do list is finding a new defensive coordinator after making Joe Whitt Jr. surplus to requirements. This was always inevitable after he was demoted from play-calling duties, and the sooner his position is filled, the sooner Washington can turn its attention to recruiting.
Interviews are currently being arranged or have already taken place. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, one of those is the Kansas City Chiefs' defensive line coach, Joe Cullen. And the development was not well-received by someone who has worked closely with the coach in recent years.
Commanders may be onto something with Joe Cullen after Chris Jones' response
Cullen is a vastly experienced coach about to embark on his 20th year in the league. He's spent the last four years under Steve Spagnuolo with the Chiefs, guiding their defensive front through significant improvements. The unit is led by All-Pro game-wrecker Chris Jones, who seemed concerned about losing the trusted figure to the Commanders after the news broke.
Oh sh!+……. https://t.co/8b0bG5pSpR
— Chris Jones (@StoneColdJones) January 9, 2026
If fans were wondering why the Commanders want to find out more about what Cullen could potentially bring to the club, one doesn't have to read between the lines too much for Jones' thoughts.
He clearly wants him to stay in Kansas City and help the franchise during what is expected to be a transitional period. At the same time, he'd likely jump at the chance to run his own defense and help Washington improve its fortunes.
Others will, and are, being considered for the post. Quinn stated that he plans to be heavily involved in the schematic planning, regardless of who he hires. That may be a little off-putting to some, so it'll be interesting to see which direction he goes.
Improving the defense isn't a high bar after the unit cemented its status among one of the league's worst in 2025. Quinn taking over the group didn't bring about many enhancements, but something had to be done. Now, it's about finding the right fit. After that, a massive overhaul of personnel is required.
Cullen may be going under the radar compared to more high-profile names. But as Quinn proved with Blough's stunning promotion, he won't hesitate to go with his gut if he believes it's the right thing to do.
And based on Jones' thoughts on the approach, the Commanders might be onto something.