The Washington Commanders spent most of last season operating with two linebackers. Defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. was able to do this thanks to the presence of a legitimate box safety with the size of a second-level enforcer.
Jeremy Chinn was tailor-made for Dan Quinn's schematic concepts. He was fast, physical, and instinctive. There were times when he struggled in coverage, but even this area of his game improved as the campaign progressed.
Washington gave Chinn a chance to resurrect his career on a one-year deal after things fizzled out with the Carolina Panthers. He looked like a player reborn, gaining 117 tackles throughout a season that finally put him back on the map.
Commanders letting Jeremy Chinn walk is starting to look questionable
Most fans and experts thought Chinn had done enough for a longer-term commitment from the Commanders. He fit the mold of what Quinn was trying to build, and his partnership on the backend of Washington's defense with Quan Martin boasted immense potential. Unfortunately, general manager Adam Peters held a different opinion.
Chinn signed for the Las Vegas Raiders on a two-year, $16.25 million deal. The NFC West club might be struggling, but the former Southern Illinois standout is among its few shining lights. His 70.8 grade from Pro Football Focus ranks 14th out of 83 qualifying safeties, and the player's tone-setting presence against the run is coming in for significant praise.
Looking at how things are unfolding with Washington's safeties, one cannot look at Peters' decision to let Chinn walk with anything other than regret. Will Harris was signed for cheaper, but he got hurt. Martin is struggling to establish himself as the alpha dog. Jeremy Reaves, Tyler Owens, and Percy Butler are either special-teams players or still finding their feet.
It's not just the safety room missing his presence. Not having his influence across the second level, especially closer to the line of scrimmage, has had a ripple effect. Bobby Wagner is getting exposed in both pursuit and coverage. Opposing offenses can key in on Frankie Luvu with alarming success, knowing the physical element Chinn brought to the table is long gone.
It wouldn't have cost that much to retain Chinn's services. Nobody else in the safety unit is on big money, so it was feasible to make it work if Peters wanted. That didn't happen, and the Commanders are paying a heavy price for this apparent lack of judgment.
Letting Chinn leave was a contentious issue at the time. It looks even worse now.