One could have forgiven the Washington Commanders for feeling a little apprehensive about the prospect of Mike McDaniel becoming the new Philadelphia Eagles' offensive coordinator. Thankfully, that wasn't the case.
Most thought the Commanders made perfect sense for McDaniel once he was fired by the Miami Dolphins. His time as a head coach fizzled out, but he remains one of the league's most respected, innovative offensive minds. He also has a strong connection to Dan Quinn, who pulled him out of a dark place when they worked together on the Atlanta Falcons.
The Commanders promoted David Blough to replace Kliff Kingsbury instead. Fans thought this meant McDaniel was more interested in taking a head-coaching job, but they were wrong. He even cancelled meetings for top-job opportunities to become the Los Angeles Chargers' offensive coordinator.
Commanders won't have to face Mike McDaniel twice a season after he joined the Chargers
Jeff Darlington of ESPN revealed that the Philadelphia Eagles and Tampa Bay Buccaneers had both made McDaniel their top offensive coordinator candidate. However, the thought of helping quarterback Justin Herbert reach new heights proved too tempting to ignore in the end.
"The Bucs and the Eagles both pursued [Mike] McDaniel as their top OC target. The Bucs were especially diligent in their courtship, and McDaniel was very engaged with them throughout. Ultimately, the lure of getting back to California and coaching Justin Herbert proved strongest."Jefff Darlington
Nobody in Washington will be shedding tears about not having to go up against McDaniel twice a season. The Eagles will have other candidates in mind — potentially even Kingsbury if he doesn't get the Baltimore Ravens job. However, there is no doubt that Quinn's old protégé was the best available option by a considerable margin.
Like the Commanders, something felt off about the Eagles all year. They had more talent to mask these failings, but head coach Nick Sirianni's squad came unstuck in the harsh environment of the playoffs. Kevin Patullo was the sacrificial lamb, but it's now back to the drawing board after missing out on McDaniel.
As for the Commanders? They've taken a huge leap of faith with Blough. Those in power felt like decisive action was needed to prevent him from joining the Detroit Lions or anyone else. While his inexperience as a play-caller is a massive concern, this might be Washington getting ahead of the game. And Quinn is willing to fall on his own sword by making the change he believes is needed.
What goes on in Philadelphia is not Quinn's concern right now. But he probably cracked a wry smile when McDaniel turned them down.