Daronte Jones becoming the next Washington Commanders defensive coordinator represents a journey into the unknown for the coach and the franchise. But if this move brings the desired improvements, it will only mean good things for the team's ambitions moving forward.
Head coach Dan Quinn couldn't be accused of being scared to try new things this offseason. He could have kept the status quo, hiring guys he knows and trusts, heading into a make-or-break campaign for his job aspirations. Instead, he went with two inexperienced play-callers in an attempt to spark new life into his squad.
It could go either way, but hopes are high.
Jones is more than qualified, rising through the coaching ranks to earn this opportunity. And one Minnesota Vikings insider believes coping with the high demands of Brian Flores will stand him in tremendous stead while taking charge of his own NFL defensive unit for the first time.
Vikings insider believes Daronte Jones is primed to make the Commanders a success
Kevin Seifert of ESPN, during a conversation with JP Finlay and Brian Mitchell on 106.7 The Fan, thought that being Flores's right-hand man and earning the trust of such a demanding coach spoke volumes. He also expects to see similar aggressive tendencies in his defensive strategy if he can acquire the right personnel.
"Brian Flores is not an easy guy to work for; he’s very demanding, very exacting, and Daronte Jones was his right-hand man...Every great coordinator got their first job somewhere. The degree to which Flores does the unexpected or unconventional is impossible to replicate, but I'd be shocked if Jones doesn’t try to be aggressive and not sit back and let the offense dictate terms."Kevin Seifert
This should excite Commanders fans, especially after they were forced to watch two years of bland concepts and almost no adjustments under Joe Whitt Jr. Jones might be green from an NFL play-calling standpoint, but he's learned from some of the most accomplished coaches around. He's also spent one year calling defensive plays in college at LSU, though this is a different type of pressure entirely.
Jones will have his ideas on how best to take the Commanders' defense forward. He's an exceptional teacher, especially when it comes to defensive backs. He's loved by his players, and his motivational techniques are first-class. So long as Quinn doesn't get in the way too much regarding the game planning, this has the scope to be a roaring success.
Everyone associated with the Vikings was sad to see Jones leave. Hopefully, the Commanders will find out why.