The Washington Commanders haven't narrowed down their list of candidates to become defensive coordinator. In fact, after Brian Flores opted to return to the Minnesota Vikings if he doesn't get a head-coaching job, the number is increasing by the day.
Head coach Dan Quinn needs to make the right hire. He's leaving no stone unturned and may be waiting for someone else involved in the current head-coaching cycle to become available. If not, the Commanders want to have the correct contingencies in place so they are not caught short.
Al Harris is going to speak with his close friend Quinn about potentially taking the job. That brings intrigue, despite his lack of play-calling experience. However, another possible option has just entered the mix.
Commanders have interviewed Teryl Austin for their vacant defensive coordinator opening
According to Nicki Jhabvala from The Athletic, the Commanders have also interviewed Teryl Austin for the job. He's currently the Pittsburgh Steelers' defensive coordinator, but his services may no longer be required after Mike Tomlin stunningly stepped away from the franchise after 19 years.
Austin ticks the experience box for Washington. He's been a defensive coordinator with the Florida Gators, Detroit Lions, and Cincinnati Bengals before landing with the Steelers. He was a secondary coach on the Baltimore Ravens when they won a Super Bowl. The success has been solid enough, but nothing that would blow anyone away.
The Steelers had one of the league's most expensive defenses this season, but they didn't come close to meeting expectations. A coordinator can only do so much, but there were times when they seemed to lack motivation and preparation.
This would be an underwhelming hire if the Commanders went in this direction. Austin is qualified, and there is not much the coach hasn't seen throughout his coaching career. At the same time, the Steelers gave up 360.8 yards per game last season (No. 28) — 23.2 yards behind the league-worst Washington defense. That doesn't exactly inspire confidence, especially considering how devoid this group is of legitimate quality or sufficient depth.
Austin couldn't get a group of All-Pros and Pro Bowlers to be competitive last season. The task would be even more difficult in Washington, so the concerns are there for all to see.
This could merely be a case of the Commanders covering all their bases, speaking to as many candidates as possible before narrowing down their shortlist. There is just no telling for sure right now, but with several other intriguing openings available across the NFL, Quinn is under duress.
And he cannot afford to get it wrong.