Daronte Jones' arrival as the new defensive coordinator is going to shake things up considerably for the Washington Commanders. After how things unfolded for the defense in two years under Joe Whitt Jr.'s guidance, that is not a bad thing by any stretch of the imagination.
Jones comes highly regarded. He was a driving force with the Minnesota Vikings, working closely with Brian Flores on strategic planning while also developing their defensive backs considerably. He's also spent time under Mike Zimmer and Vance Joseph throughout his career, and he served as LSU's defensive coordinator for one season.
With fresh ideas come new players. General manager Adam Peters needs to recruit players aligned with the schematic concepts Jones plans to run. There will also be staffing alterations, making this an exciting yet uncertain time for those in the building.
Not everyone is going to come along for the ride. And for one established veteran, Jones' arrival all but confirms his departure from the organization this offseason.
For Jones' projected scheme to work, he needs fast, explosive edge rushers capable of getting into the backfield quickly. The blitzes will be more exotic, and those on the defensive front need to hold their ground. Anything less, and the Commanders are going to have a massive problem on their hands.
Peters has already highlighted his desire to improve Washington's pass-rushing options. Only Dorance Armstrong Jr. is guaranteed to be back, and he's coming off a significant knee injury. A complete rethink is required. It wouldn't be surprising to see the unit completely gutted this spring in pursuit of progress.
Any slim hope Preston Smith had of earning another deal in Washington has probably evaporated with their decision to hire Jones. He was a dominant edge rusher at the peak of his powers, but his efforts last season indicate that those days are long gone.
Smith served a purpose last season. The Commanders needed an experienced presence after Deatrich Wise Jr. went to injured reserve. It should be a stopgap and nothing more. Jones' scheme will likely demand dynamism and forcefulness off the edge. The former Mississippi State standout doesn't have either at this late stage of his NFL journey.
Not many would have expected Smith back next season. Jones' arrival and the creative scheme he'll potentially employ enhance this notion.
Quinn is placing a lot of faith in Jones, especially with his own job status hanging in the balance if things don't go well. Doing what's required to improve the playing personnel is the only way this gamble will yield the desired results.
And Smith should be let go with little fanfare attached.