3 Commanders players already benefitting from Dan Quinn's presence

Dan Quinn wasn't everyone's first choice to become Washington Commanders head coach. However, the impressive start he's made since taking the job is starting to win even his harshest critics over.

Quinn knows this is his final opportunity to be a successful NFL head coach. He's widely respected around the league and molded an impressive coaching staff once his appointment became official. That doesn't guarantee lavish accomplishments, but it's a great place to start.

Playing for the Commanders is fun again. That much is obvious when looking at the increased energy at practices and how every player is working in unison towards one common goal. Preparations are gathering pace, but Quinn's already left his mark as he strives to ensure everything goes off without a hitch before Week 1 at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

With this in mind, here are three Commanders players who are already benefitting greatly from Quinn's presence this offseason.

Emmanuel Forbes - Commanders CB

The Washington Commanders asked too much of Emmanuel Forbes last season. Despite the cornerback's impressive athletic attributes, he was taken too high during the 2023 NFL Draft based on his rookie production. However, all hope is not lost just yet.

Instead of throwing Forbes to the wolves, head coach Dan Quinn is taking a conservative approach. The Commanders are stripping things back with the former Mississippi State star and focusing on the positive attributes he brings to the table. Washington's staff is finding ways to maximize his skills, including the potential to be deployed on special teams as a returner.

Forbes is benefitting from improved coaching methods. Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. know how to develop defensive backs effectively. There are concerns about his size and how physically outmatched the player was in 2023. Removing problem areas from his game and building his confidence back gradually is the only way this pick has some chance of paying dividends.

It's still early days. But it's so far, so good.