The Washington Commanders are taking their time before appointing a new defensive coordinator. Head coach Dan Quinn wants to find an experienced play-caller to replace Joe Whitt Jr., who looked out of his depth and was let go as expected once the campaign concluded.
Several big names have been brought in for interviews. Others will also be considered. However, the Commanders' potential primary target may suddenly be out of reach thanks to a concerning development elsewhere.
The Atlanta Falcons have made Kevin Stefanski their next head coach. Everything went well during the second meeting, which allowed him to return to work immediately after being fired by the Cleveland Browns. And this may potentially impact Washington's search for a new defensive guru for good measure.
Commanders may not get the chance to speak with Jeff Ulbrich for their defensive coordinator vacancy
Stefanski has also done his homework on Jeff Ulbrich with a view to keeping him on as defensive coordinator, according to ESPN's Jeremy Fowler. The Falcons would like to keep him around, which represents a blow to the Commanders if this scenario becomes reality.
"[Kevin] Stefanski has done research on potentially working with Falcons DC Jeff Ulbrich in Atlanta, per sources. Owner Arthur Blank would like to keep Ulbrich, who would be a top coordinator candidate on the market if available."Jeremy Fowler
Most beat writers believe Ulbrich is high on Quinn's shortlist. He hasn't had the chance to speak with him yet, due to the previous uncertainty in Atlanta. And if the Falcons opt to retain his services, the Commanders have to look elsewhere.
This is notable for Washington’s DC search. Ulbrich, who previously worked under Quinn, is thought to be one of if not the top candidate here.
— Ben Standig (@BenStandig) January 17, 2026
With the Browns apparently looking to keep Jim Schwartz, Stefanski might not have his recent DC available. https://t.co/AuxvIeRrI0
It's a tricky situation for Quinn. Waiting too long could mean missing other targets. Everything should become clearer in the coming days, but it seems as if the Commanders' chances of reuniting Ulbrich with Quinn are fading.
Getting left short-handed is not an option.
There is an enormous amount of pressure on Quinn to deliver the goods next season. If the hire takes a little longer, so be it, but making sure they get the correct man into the building is the most important thing above all else. At the same time, the Commanders need to find out, one way or another, whether Ulbrich is a viable option, even though Atlanta has hired Stefanski. If not, they must swiftly turn their attentions elsewhere.
Ulbrich is a good coach, but others are deserving as well. The Falcons are not going to give him up without a fight, and the Commanders are probably onto a loser if they are intent on bringing him into the building.
Stefanski's appointment all but confirms it.