Commanders news: Dan Quinn, Curtis Samuel, Jacoby Brissett and Magic Johnson
By Dean Jones
Magic Johnson's influence
It's no secret that Magic Johnson had a hand in Kliff Kingsbury turning down the Las Vegas Raiders in favor of becoming Washington Commanders offensive coordinator. The basketball icon and limited ownership partner used his stroke to convince the play-caller to make some last-minute adjustments. Something that can also serve the franchise well in pursuit of acquiring free agents to join this ambitious project.
Johnson is revered and idolized in the sporting and business world. It's not a bad ace to play - one that could tip the scales if a target of interest is on the fence. However, Mike Florio from Pro Football Talk erred on the side of caution given that Ben Johnson and Mike Macdonald spurned Washington's advances during the recent hiring cycle.
"Basketball’s version of Elvis has entered the building in Washington, and if he can help the Commanders win a jump ball or two in recruiting, so be it. Especially with free agency approaching. But let’s also be realistic. The Commanders whiffed on at least two head-coaching candidates before hiring Dan Quinn. Ben Johnson passed, and Mike Macdonald chose Seattle, Washington over Washington, D.C. So Magic is not necessarily 1-0 when it comes to closing deals. He’s quite possibly 1-2. Either way, he’ll get a chance to improve his recruiting record next month, when it’s time to sign players away from other teams."
- Mike Florio, Pro Football Talk
Just how involved Johnson will be in terms of free-agent recruitment remains to be seen. He's got impressive contacts. He's got a silver tongue capable of winning people over. But the Commanders being out of Dan Snyder's grasp might be the biggest factor of all.