The Washington Commanders are expected to move on from defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. at some stage during the offseason. Anything less would be extraordinary after how things unfolded throughout the campaign, but what comes next is even more critical.
Whitt got demoted from defensive play-calling duties before Washington's international game against the Miami Dolphins in Madrid. Quinn had to take charge, and although improvements weren't plentiful afterward, additional energy and outside-the-box thinking are imperative.
It's an essential hire for Quinn if Whitt is deemed surplus to requirements, as expected. Seats will get a lot warmer if the Commanders continue to struggle in 2026. Appointing the correct defensive coordinator to get a better tune out of the personnel — another area expected for a massive overhaul in the spring — and the better Washington's chances of bouncing back immediately will be.
Commanders should inquire about Jonathan Gannon after Cardinals firing
And there are some new candidates on the market worth considering.
Raheem Morris was fired by the Atlanta Falcons and boasts a strong previous connection to Quinn. Jim Schwartz might be seeking alternative employment after the Cleveland Browns fired Kevin Stefanski. And then, there is Jonathan Gannon, who got sent packing by the Arizona Cardinals.
Gannon's time in Arizona didn't go as planned. However, he secured the top job due to his sterling work as the Philadelphia Eagles' defensive coordinator. If he is interested in getting back to work quickly, the Commanders would be wise to inquire.
The Commanders could use an experienced presence who has served as a coordinator. There is a lot at stake for Quinn in 2026, and betting on unknown quantities may not be smart. There is considerable merit in targeting someone with Gannon's undoubted credentials.
Gannon had an exceptional defensive résumé before taking the job in Arizona, devising a scheme that spearheaded the Eagles to another Super Bowl. He could take some time out of the game before making his next move, but there would be no shortage of suitors looking to find out more if he wants to get back into the mix immediately.
Whether it's Gannon or someone else, the Commanders need a change. Whatever they've tried defensively over the last two years hasn't worked effectively enough. Only this time around, quarterback Jayden Daniels was unable to mask this glaring flaw.
Whitt will be expecting the worst. Quinn won't like it, but he has to do what's best for the franchise. And once the inevitable is confirmed, Gannon must go on the shortlist of replacements.