Daronte Jones is looking to make an instant impression with the Washington Commanders. Head coach Dan Quinn was blown away by his new defensive coordinator during interviews, leaving no doubt that this was the man capable of spearheading the significant improvements needed.
Of course, this won't happen without a revamp of the playing personnel at his disposal. And a recent report could carve out a path for Jones to reunite with someone he worked with last season.
The Commanders need to build their defense from the inside out. Adam Peters all but confirmed that Daron Payne will be back next season, albeit without a contract extension. Javon Kinlaw's contract is hard to get off, but Jones likes the versatility he brings to the table. Johnny Newton could be a pass-rush specialist. Even so, it wouldn't be surprising if those in power decide that more is needed.
And another possible option set to hit the market could provoke a discussion in Washington.
Commanders could look to reunite Daronte Jones with Javon Hargrave
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Minnesota Vikings are planning to release Javon Hargrave if no willing trade suitor comes forward. This will save the cash-strapped NFC North club $10.9 million on its salary cap. Running back Aaron Jones is another player who's been told that his services are no longer required.
Hargrave may pique the Commanders' interest. Fans will groan about the prospect of acquiring another aging veteran whose best days are behind them. However, if the money works, this could be an intriguing addition for more ways than one.
First, Hargrave has the size and core strength to play the nose tackle position. If Jones moves to a 3-4 base front, this could be a nice stopgap while the Commanders find instant impact players to fly off the edge. For all his faults last season in Minnesota, the former South Carolina State college star was a formidable presence against the run, freeing up space for the Vikings' blitz-happy scheme to do damage.
Then, there is the familiarity factor. Hargrave knows what sort of system Jones wants to run, so the transition would be seamless. It would be nothing more than a short-term solution, but having his experience within the scheme could help others get up to speed a little quicker.
Expecting miracles from Hargrave would be unrealistic. He's firmly at the tail-end of his career, and the Commanders should generally be looking to move away from this sort of move. That doesn't mean it should be completely dismissed if Jones wants it, especially if the contract demands are affordable.
Hargrave might be looking for a team with legitimate chances to contend. But considering the esteem in which Jones was held in Minnesota, it's a possibility.