Dan Quinn is taking a significant risk in his quest to bring a new sense of vibrancy to the Washington Commanders. After parting ways with Joe Whitt Jr. and Kliff Kingsbury, the head coach hired two new coordinators with no play-calling experience. To say that raised a few eyebrows across the NFL would be a massive understatement.
Most thought Quinn would go with more experience, with his own job prospects getting increasingly precarious. Instead, he tried something different, completely out of his comfort zone. He wants to get ahead of the game rather than bank on retreads that may or may not work out.
This could cost Quinn his job if it goes wrong. If it comes off, it'll provide the spark that breathes new life into the Commanders. And without even trying, Super Bowl-winning head coach Mike Macdonald shut down the tired narrative around this daring gamble without even trying.
Mike Macdonald's comments made Commanders fans feel better about coordinator gambles
Macdonald faced the same questions after hiring Brian Fleury to replace offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, who left the Seattle Seahawks for the Las Vegas Raiders' head-coaching job. And his blunt comment about taking a calculated risk should also put Commanders fans at ease.
"I do think it's a bit overrated. All play-callers have to be first-time play-callers at some point. You're going to have to grow in any new role, but it's going to be a fun process to build this thing."Mike Macdonald
Everyone has to start somewhere. As Macdonald stated, getting the chance to work with a clean slate and alongside someone not stuck in their ways is exciting.
Macdonald's situation with Fleury is similar to Quinn's with offensive coordinator David Blough. Both got surprising play-calling roles. Both are expected to bring innovative ideas that resonate with modern-day players. And more importantly, this gives both head coaches clear alignment on how best to take the organization forward.
Quinn could have easily gone with the coaches he's worked with previously, looking for another chance. There were several intriguing options out there, but there's a lot to be said for the decisions he made.
It shows a willingness to change with the tide around the league. It demonstrates self-awareness, learning, growth, and the development of new connections. It also shows that he can take on criticism and adjust his approach accordingly.
If Quinn is going to fall on his own sword, he's doing it on his terms. And who knows, perhaps this becomes the masterstroke that gets Washington back among the contenders quicker than anticipated.