The landscape within the NFC East has changed drastically. And the Washington Commanders are now facing even more pressure to successfully navigate what was already a critical offseason for the franchise.
John Harbaugh immediately became the primary head-coaching candidate on the market once his prolific stint with the Baltimore Ravens ended. This relationship had run its course, but his credentials saw every needy team put their plans on hold immediately.
After extensive investigations from Harbaugh, he narrowed his list of potential destinations to three. The Tennessee Titans and Atlanta Falcons were in the mix. But all it took was one lengthy meeting with the New York Giants to tip the scales in their favor.
Commanders have a massive problem on their hands with John Harbaugh
According to Adam Schefter of ESPN, the final details are being figured out before the Giants officially name Harbaugh as their new head coach. This is a significant coup for the franchise, one that instantly legitimizes their ambitions to get back into the playoff hunt sooner rather than later.
Harbaugh spent considerable time speaking with the Giants on Wednesday. Senior figures and owner John Mara were in attendance, as was quarterback Jaxson Dart. Whatever they pitched worked, and the NFC East arms race just got a lot more interesting.
The Philadelphia Eagles are not going to get worse after removing offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo. The Dallas Cowboys should enhance their options with two first-round picks. As for the Commanders? They need to maximize every available resource to avoid being left behind.
The stakes have been raised. Harbaugh hasn't come to the Giants for anything less than greatness. He's come to win a Super Bowl, and he believes that this environment with the pieces already in place gives him the best possible chance to do just that. The Commanders — and everyone else in the division, for that matter — need to react accordingly.
Washington will have two new coordinators next season. Their roster should look drastically different. Hopefully, the Commanders will have better luck on the health front, and Jayden Daniels returns to the rookie form that captivated fans around the league.
That should be enough for this team to grow. But the margin for error is long gone.
Harbaugh's arrival in the NFC East only turns up the heat. His reputation and accomplishments need no introduction. Joining the Giants is the worst-case scenario for Washington. Meeting fire with fire is absolutely imperative.
And dragging their feet is simply not an option.