The Washington Commanders made a significant statement of intent by hiring Eric Henderson as their new defensive line coach/run game coordinator. He's left a prominent position as co-coordinator at USC, a clear sign of his confidence in Daronte Jones and this ambitious project.
Henderson is widely respected as a leader and motivator. He's a Super Bowl-winning coach with the Los Angeles Rams, and he'll now look to kickstart a defensive front that fell way short of expectations under Joe Whitt Jr.
And an old quote from future Pro Football Hall of Famer Aaron Donald has only whetted the appetite further for Commanders fans pleading for change.
Aaron Donald quote should make Commanders fans excited about Eric Henderson
When asked about Henderson during their time working together on the Rams, Donald was gushing in his praise. He holds him in the highest regard, citing his ability to nurture both veteran players and young upstarts with equal efficiency as a reason for optimism. And it's clear he's also got the relentless mindset that will breathe new life into Washington's defensive trenches.
"We just grew a close relationship. I think he's a great young coach. If not the best, one of the top defensive line coaches in the National Football League. From the things he's able to teach young guys, teach veteran guys, from technique things, to be able to put us in certain positions to try to have success. He's a guy that's always working over trying to find a way. He's never satisfied. And that's one thing that we kinda got the same mindset toward a lot of things. So, a lot of love and respect for Coach Henderson."Aaron Donald via Yahoo Sports
If Commanders fans weren't excited before, they should be now.
Donald is one of the greatest players of the modern era — or any era, for that matter. He didn't suffer fools gladly, so for him to be bestowing such adulation for Henderson's influence on his game speaks volumes.
Luring him from the college ranks wouldn't have been cheap. Jones pulled off a major coup here, and his presence is going to be felt immediately. Everyone in the locker room should be on edge. They should also be looking to make an instant impression, because the stakes are being raised in no uncertain terms.
Henderson will be a fantastic addition to the coaching ranks. He bought into what Jones has planned. He'll be striving to make a leading contribution throughout the summer and when competitive action commences. And make no mistake: anyone not pulling their weight will be brutally exposed.
Donald's growing reference is immensely encouraging. Hopefully, Henderson's trend of bringing out the best in his players will continue in Washington.