Commanders' firing Joe Whitt is the easy part for Dan Quinn

It's not just general manager Adam Peters who's got some gut-wrenching decisions to make this offseason. The same also applies to Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn, who will likely begin this by firing defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr.

Whitt was demoted from defensive play-calling responsibilities earlier this season after another demoralizing campaign from his unit. The improvements haven't been evident much since Quinn took charge, so it's clear that a fresh injection of ideas is needed to turn the tide in 2026.

This seems like a foregone conclusion. What's more debatable is the direction Quinn takes to find a replacement. Does he utilize his vast connections around the league? Or does the coach think outside the box entirely?

Dan Quinn faces a complex dilemma for Commanders' next defensive coordinator hire

The subject is already causing some significant conversations among the fan base. Kevin Sheehan from The Team 980 had a slight preference for Quinn hiring outside his typical connections. Even so, he acknowledged that going with someone already known is typically the route most coaches take when push comes to shove.

"I think I have a preference for him to go outside, but I don't know. There's gonna be some passion and emotion tied to this, and as far as hiring people you know cronyism, if you've been in the league for five, six, seven years, it's the way most coaches go when they have people that they've been working with for a long period of time that they're comfortable with. It's the way most coaches go, successful or unsuccessful."

Kevin Sheehan, The Team 980

Familiarity is comforting. Building strong relationships is a big part of the way Quinn goes about his business. Once they are formed, he is immensely loyal. That's why he looked so despondent after telling Whitt he wasn't going to be in charge of the defense anymore. It's also why there is no pressure on his job despite the Commanders heading into Week 18 with a 4-13 record.

Quinn will have some candidates in mind. Al Harris is drawing significant buzz, and he worked with Washington's coach during their time together on the Dallas Cowboys. Others, such as Jeff Ulbrich, might also be considered. There is no telling for sure, but the Commanders would be wise to bring this to a quick resolution when Whitt is inevitably let go.

A massive overhaul of the playing personnel is also assured. The new coordinator will be needed before then, so time is of the essence. Regardless of which way Quinn decides to go, he must get this call right.

Otherwise, he's going to carry the can.