Jeremy Chinn's explosive traits can help Commanders defense thrive in 2024

Jeremy Chinn brings an intriguing set of traits to the Washington Commanders that look tailor-made for Dan Quinn's scheme.

Adam Peters has been wise with his spending so far this offseason. The Washington Commanders have agreed to terms with a dozen players during the legal tampering period with more on the way. This has been done without breaking the bank, leaving room for some extra flexibility as the offseason progresses.

It seems as if Dan Quinn's presence is also tipping the scales in Washington. Frankie Luvu was reportedly intrigued to see if his game could be taken to new heights in the Commanders' defensive system despite the Carolina Panthers making him an offer to stay. The same transpired with Jeremy Chinn, who adds another dimension to the ranks after agreeing to a one-year, $5.1 million deal.

Commanders can regnite Jeremy Chinn's career

Chinn fell out of favor in Carolina through no real fault of his own. Ejiro Evero claimed he had a grand plan to put his athletic attributes to good use. He turned out to be a square peg in a round hole en route to 39 percent of the team's defensive snaps after being in the 90% or higher range over the first three years of his pro career.

The former second-round pick was relishing a fresh start elsewhere. Chinn reportedly turned down multiple advances to link up with Quinn and Joe Whitt Jr. Like Luvu, he feels like this expansive system is the best spot to galvanize his career.

While the Southern Illinois college product is listed as a safety, that's not where Chinn is best suited. His most accomplished production as an NFL player came at the defensive second level. He thrives closer to the line of scrimmage thanks to outstanding athleticism and instincts. He's explosive enough to rush the passer and arrives at the point of contact with physicality to further enhance his influence.

Quinn will love Chinn. He's probably laid out a plan to get more out of the player. Creativity is key. It would also be wise to allow the versatile weapon a sense of freedom to make plays - something Ron Rivera and Jack Del Rio rarely allowed within their rigid system with little imagination.

Chinn's troubles come in coverage, especially on the backend. Evero didn't trust him. Even when Vonn Bell went down through injury, opportunities were limited. But if anyone can help him get back to something like his old form, it's Quinn, Whitt, and their high-caliber staff.

Perhaps experimenting with Chinn as the WILL linebacker within a 4-3 alignment could reap rewards. Having a former teammate in Luvu as the MIKE provides a sense of familiarity. This would also allow Jamin Davis to occupy more time on the edge - this could be the making of him.

The Commanders have lacked opportunistic playmakers at the second level. They now have two - both from the Panthers. It's important not to overthink things with Chinn - examine his 2020 tape and take it from there. This is not the Kamren Curl replacement many envisage, or at least it shouldn't be.

Chinn's had some injury problems but avoided any major complications. He'll be highly motivated and hopefully, Quinn has the magic formula.