New defensive coordinator Daronte Jones has wasted no time putting his plans into action. The Washington Commanders are giving him the freedom to build his own staff, and though no incomings have been confirmed yet, several assistants have already been shown the door.
Jason Simmons jumped before he was pushed, joining the Pittsburgh Steelers to reunite with Mike McCarthy. Assistant defensive line coach Sharrif Floyd and player development coach Pete Ohnegian were made surplus to requirements. Ryan Kerrigan, a popular former player and team legend, won't be back as assistant linebackers coach/pass-rush specialist.
Nobody would argue that these drastic measures aren't needed. The Commanders' defense was an abomination this season. Joe Whitt Jr. got demoted from play-calling duties, and there weren't many improvements when head coach Dan Quinn took over. A complete reset is needed, and Jones is taking the necessary steps to ensure improvements arrive quickly.
More alterations could be on the way. And there is one coach whom fans believe might be next on the chopping block.
Commanders' defensive backs coach Tommy Donatell could be on the chopping block
Tommy Donatell joined the Commanders soon after Quinn was hired asd defensive backs coach. This critical field was expected to be a strength in 2025, but it became a major weakness. Obviously, the injuries didn't help their cause, so Jones needs to figure out how much of the regression is attributable to coaching.
Jones' eventful rise from a high school coach to an NFL coordinator is primarily due to his work with defensive backs. His credentials are accomplished and respected in equal measure. That will only help achieve the desired growth, and a situation could arise in which Donatell remains part of the team's plans if he buys into the new way of thinking.
Still, there is nothing to prevent Jones from finding an upgrade if one can be identified. He's waited a long time for the chance to run his own defense, so leaving no stone unturned is crucial. And the fact that he was willing to part ways with someone like Kerrigan should put everyone on edge.
Jones could retain some staff to maintain continuity. At the same time, this is a new era and a defensive revolution. A level of ruthlessness is needed, so this might not be the end of Washington's staff purge.
Conversations are ongoing, and this is a fluid situation. But make no mistake; Jones won't hesitate to do what's necessary in pursuit of laying the foundations for defensive progress.
If those plans don't include Donatell, it's a small price to pay.