Commanders news: Kliff Kingsbury, Joe Whitt Jr., Haason Reddick and QB Plans
By Dean Jones
Commanders DC Joe Whitt Jr.'s intent
To say Joe Whitt Jr. left a good impression during his introductory presser would be an understatement. The new Washington Commanders defensive coordinator spoke at length about what he's going to implement in terms of scheme and overall approach. He'll weed out the weak quickly with high demands and lofty expectations. Something that can hopefully galvanize a talent group that vastly underachieved in 2023.
Whitt is carrying a sense of accountability towards his newfound responsibilities. The intentions are clear. He wants the Commanders to work together, perform above their talent level, create turnovers, and keep the same standards day in and day out based on comments via Sports Illustrated.
"We want the ball. The ball is life. The ball is air. I'm not really a rah-rah guy on game day. If you're doing a lot of yelling on game day, (it means) you haven't done your job during the week. Now at practice? That's different."
- Joe Whitt Jr. via Sports Illustrated
Expect standards and professionalism to immediately increase with Whitt leading Washington's defense. Based on his articulation and passion during the presser, it won't take long for almost every player to get fully on board with his teaching methods.
Make no mistake, anyone not getting into Whitt's program will be shown the door. There is no room for passengers under the new regime. That's been made abundantly clear.