Dan Quinn was expected to help the Washington Commanders through a pivotal transition under Josh Harris' ownership group. Most anticipated on-field improvements in some capacity. Nobody projected this perennial struggler to reach the NFC Conference championship game in Year 1 of such a comprehensive rebuild from top to bottom.
That's exactly what Quinn, his staff, and the players accomplished. They did it through a unique blend of fighting spirit, flawless poise, and a togetherness that had been sorely lacking in Washington previously.
Quinn was the right man for the job. He was the exact leader this organization needed. His previous experience accumulated as Atlanta Falcons head coach came with some harsh lessons attached. He took them on board to ensure the same mistakes didn't occur in Washington.
The Commanders' remarkable Divisional Round win at the Detroit Lions was the latest example of how far they've come in a short timeframe. They stood up to the NFC's No. 1 seed and went toe-to-toe, not taking a step back and seizing the initiative relatively early on.
Something they never relinquished.
This seems like a dream for fans who've been dragged through the mud for more than 20 years. Those who persevered through the bad times have been rewarded handsomely this season. Other factors are playing a role, but Quinn's willingness to trust his players and inspire through firm but fair leadership ignited a spark in this group much sooner than expected.
Jourdan Lewis can't believe how quickly Dan Quinn turned the Commanders around
It's surprised everyone outside the building. Media figures, coaches, front office figures, and players are watching on in awe as the Commanders become a feel-good story with a sustainable future. This is just the start of something truly special.
One of Quinn's former players on the Dallas Cowboys was flabbergasted by what was unfolding in front of his eyes. Cornerback Jourdan Lewis took to social media to highlight obvious bemusement that his old coordinator was taking the Commanders to such heights so quickly. And the bitter regret radiated from just a few short words.
No way DQ left and immediately did this.
— Jourdan Lewis (@JourdanJD) January 19, 2025
It's almost as if Quinn wasn't the problem in Dallas…
The respected figure was scapegoated for another playoff failure in 2023. Things got even worse after his departure and the Cowboys are looking for a new head coach. And this all came to Washington's benefit.
Quinn brought the good times back. He grew in stature and raised belief across the board. The will to win never wavered, it only grew. And it enveloped the entire franchise along the way.
It just so happens that Lewis is also a free agent this spring. He didn't perform well against the run, but the defensive back's 79.0 coverage grade from Pro Football Focus ranked 14th out of 223 qualifying cornerbacks around the league. If the money works and Dallas lets him test the market, don't be surprised if he's in a Washington uniform next season.
That's for the future. For now, Quinn will remain calm amid the adulation and refocus on the next challenge. If the Commanders keep this positive momentum going, they could find themselves playing for the biggest prize of all.
Anyone who thinks that isn't possible at this juncture hasn't been paying close enough attention.