The Washington Commanders moved quickly once their pursuit of Brian Flores failed. Head coach Dan Quinn turned to a familiar face, scheduling an interview with Al Harris for their vacant defensive coordinator position.
And there is one quote that fans are clinging to that will hopefully get this target over the line if both parties are happy.
Harris is a well-regarded coach on the up. This is a natural transition, representing a significant step up from his current responsibilities as the Chicago Bears' defensive backs coach. He's done exceptional work with the NFC North club, which follows from his outstanding influence on the Dallas Cowboys' secondary when Quinn was the defensive coordinator.
Commanders counting on Al Harris' strong connection to Dan Quinn amid Packers interest
The two formed a close connection in Dallas. This would enable a smooth transition regarding the defensive scheme and integration with the staff. Harris has no previous play-calling experience, which is what the Commanders were reportedly looking for after promoting David Blough on the offensive side, but that doesn't mean the former two-time Pro Bowl cornerback isn't more than capable of making a successful go of things.
Washington has competition for Harris. The Green Bay Packers have already interviewed him, and their defense performed well enough this season for Jeff Hafley to get a head-coaching job with the Miami Dolphins. It would be tempting, but his relationship with Quinn may supersede anything when it's all said and done.
Harris is on the record saying he would follow Quinn anywhere. That was in 2024 when he was still part of the Cowboys' staff, and a lot has changed since then. However, if the up-and-coming coach is a man of his word, that would put the Commanders in the driver's seat.
"If Q was to goand get a head coaching job, honestly, in whatever capacity he wanted me to come, I'm there. I'm there."Al Harris
Now that Flores has laid down his marker — committing to the Vikings if he doesn't get a top job — the Commanders must act swiftly and decisively. Harris is someone Quinn knows and trusts. And if everything goes well in this scenario, he'll be a potential head coach candidate in the not-too-distant future.
If the meeting goes well and Harris is willing to take the plunge, the Commanders cannot let him leave the building.
The Packers are already keen, and more interested suitors could be looming with several openings available around the league. Quinn was right to bide his time on the off-chance Flores committed to Washington, but Harris would not be a bad contingency plan by any stretch of the imagination.
After a slow process so far, things are about to speed up. The Commanders cannot get caught short-handed, and Harris's ever-growing credentials, coupled with a strong bond with Quinn, make him an ideal replacement for Joe Whitt Jr.