Stephen A. Smith reads Magic Johnson’s post as curtains for Commanders’ Dan Quinn

ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith doesn't know much about the Washington Commanders. He doesn't have to, either.

But he does know Earvin 'Magic' Johnson, and he has for almost three decades. And he believes a social media post from Washington's minority owner means this will be head coach Dan Quinn's final season with the Commanders.

Johnson voiced his displeasure and disbelief in typically blunt fashion after the Commanders botched their final play sequence to tie with the New York Giants in Week 5. The egregious error led fans to call for Quinn's immediate firing. While that was a little reactionary, pressure is no doubt building.

Stephen A. Smith believes Commanders are losing belief in Dan Quinn

And Smith has been around Johnson long enough to know what this message really means.

During the morning debate show First Take, Smith laid it out clearly. He thought this would be Quinn's last season with the Commanders. Johnson's comments suggest waning belief, and unless there is a monumental turnaround, the outspoken media voice didn't think there was any way he'd be coaching in Washington next year.

“Dan Quinn, it was nice knowing you as the head coach for the Washington Commanders. This will be your last season. I know me some Earvin Magic Johnson. That statement right there is all you need to know.

"I have known that man for a quarter century. I know what he means when he speaks. I know what he means when he's silent. I know him. I am telling you right now, Dan Quinn has lost support in that room. It is over."

Smith went on to say that the only way he believes Quinn could save his job is by guiding the Commanders back to the postseason. That seems like a long way off, but Washington will keep faith for now.

There is no in-house succession plan, so firing Quinn during the campaign would do more harm than good. It was a disastrous error, and the overall record over the last two seasons is nowhere near good enough. But changes now would be nothing more than waving the white flag.

Commanders are giving Dan Quinn time, but Magic Johnson's voice is infuential

They might happen eventually. And the Commanders may have already discussed the timing.

But anyone who thinks it'll happen in-season will probably be out of luck.

Smith might be right about Johnson. Magic is a winner; he's won throughout his NBA career, in business, and with his sports franchises. Failure is not an option, and Quinn is obviously falling short right now.

Johnson might not have the biggest stake in Washington, but he is a part-owner who brought instant legitimacy to the project. That means his voice carries weight, and if he's not happy, you can bet others won't be either.

Quinn is feeling the strain. The anger and frustration were palpable, both during his post-game media availability and when the dust settled on Monday. It was equally as enraging to watch, and it means talk is incredibly cheap from here on.

Actions are all that matter. Johnson will be watching closely, and Quinn must restore order to what's quickly become a chaotic situation in Washington.

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