The Washington Commanders got an interview with Brian Flores about their vacant defensive coordinator position. That sent excitement surging among the fan base, but this is far from a done deal just yet.
Flores is in high demand. He's already interviewed for the Baltimore Ravens' head-coaching opening. The Minnesota Vikings are confident about keeping him around if he fails to get a top job elsewhere. And the biggest possible danger also threw their hat into the ring just as the respected defensive mind was sitting down with head coach Dan Quinn and others in positions of power.
According to Ian Rapoport of the NFL Network, the Pittsburgh Steelers are seeking an interview with Flores to replace Mike Tomlin, who stepped down after 19 years in charge following the team's playoff blowout loss to the Houston Texans. This has emotional ties, as the AFC North club was the one that got him back into the coaching game after things fizzled with the Miami Dolphins.
Brian Flores' next move is now out of Commanders' hands amid Steelers interest
Being the guy who follows Tomlin is daunting. However, what the hire would get is time.
The Steelers aren't renowned for quickly giving up on their head coaches. This would provide the security needed to put Pittsburgh back in a position to contend for Super Bowls again. It's a risk, especially with a lot of aging players and no plan at the quarterback position, but Flores will likely speak with those in power before deciding on his next move.
The Commanders are covering their bases. Washington will speak with Jonathan Gannon today (Thursday), and several others are also in the running to succeed Joe Whitt Jr. Flores would be the golden ticket, but it largely depends on whether he can secure a second chance as a head coach.
Flores heard the Commanders out. He knows general manager Adam Peters well from their time together with the New England Patriots. Quinn is highly respected in league circles, so the aggressive play-caller probably holds a similar opinion. They've made their pitch, but everything is now out of their hands.
If the Steelers or Ravens make him a concrete offer for a well-deserved promotion, Flores will take it. He could even go back to the Vikings, who have reportedly gone all out to put a package in place to secure his stay.
The Commanders should have a good idea of what he's going to do after the meeting. Should they appoint a defensive coordinator before Flores decides on his upcoming play, that will tell fans everything they need to know.
What will be will be. But the Commanders shot for the stars with Flores, and they deserve credit for that.