Excitement went to stratospheric levels among the Washington Commanders' fans when a report surfaced about head coach Dan Quinn's desire to speak with Brian Flores about their vacant defensive coordinator position. It might come to nothing, but it's a sign that the franchise is willing to swing for the fences in its quest to find the right guy.
This was imperative if Quinn wanted to avoid questions about his own future next time around. Flores is gaining head-coaching interest from around the league. The Minnesota Vikings also want him back, but his contract has expired. If something cannot be worked out, several others will be looking to secure his services.
It'll be interesting to see whether the Commanders can get an interview with Flores. The chances seem unlikely, so Josh Harris needs to cut a massive check, and Quinn needs to give him a large say in defensive personnel during a pivotal offseason for the club.
Commanders would need more pass-rushers if they managed to hire Brian Flores
And if, by some miracle, Flores did accept the job opportunity in Minnesota, the Commanders' first-round pick would be undeniable.
One of Flores' biggest strengths as a coordinator is his ability to consistently generate pressure. His defenses are relentless, and the blitz packages are exotic. This would be a revelation for the Commanders, who haven't made opposing quarterbacks uncomfortable enough over the last two years.
The options across the defensive depth chart would need to improve significantly for this massive investment in Flores to pay off. And in this scenario, Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey would probably be right at the top of Washington's wish list at No. 7 overall in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Bailey is widely regarded as the best pure pass-rusher in this class, so he'll be high on Washington's shortlist regardless. However, if Flores came into the fold, he'll need a young, explosive game-wrecker capable of turning even the slightest advantage into a big play.
Nobody on the current Commanders' defense can do that. Several new faces would be required, but Bailey offers the best and cheapest way to add dynamism and energy. He spearheaded the Red Raiders' run to the College Football Playoff. He was extremely difficult to block in one-on-one situations. Texas Tech may have fallen in the end, but he was nothing short of outstanding.
Adam Peters has already stated his intent to add another pass-rusher this offseason. If Flores came, they would need more than one. And if Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese is also around, that could be another strong possibility to factor into the equation.
A lot needs to go right before that. Even so, stranger things have happened in the NFL.