Commanders hire D.J. Williams as QBs coach, following his tenure with Falcons

The Washington Commanders have hired D.J. Williams as their new quarterbacks coach, continuing a legacy of football excellence within the franchise.

Why it matters: This move not only highlights the Commanders' commitment to strengthening their coaching staff but also ties the organization more closely to its historical roots, particularly through the lineage of Doug Williams, D.J.'s father and a franchise icon.

• Doug Williams is celebrated as the first Black quarterback to win a Super Bowl, achieving that milestone in the 1987 season.
• The hiring reflects an effort by the Commanders to revitalize their offensive strategies following a disappointing 5-12 season.

What’s new: D.J. Williams joins the Commanders after serving as the quarterbacks coach for the Atlanta Falcons during the previous season.

• Prior to his role with the Falcons, he was an assistant quarterbacks coach, showcasing a progressive trajectory in his coaching career that began with five years as an offensive assistant for the New Orleans Saints.
• His experience includes participation in the NFL/Black College Football Hall of Fame quarterback coaching summit, which underscores his dedication to developing young talents.

Yes, but: While the hiring of D.J. Williams is promising, the Commanders still face hurdles in other areas of their coaching staff, particularly on defense and the offensive line.

• The team is actively searching for a defensive coordinator and an offensive line coach, both crucial positions that will impact their overall performance in the upcoming season.

What’s next: D.J. Williams will be tasked with not only developing the current quarterback roster but also influencing the team's offensive identity going forward.

• His recent experience coaching at the 2023 Senior Bowl adds to his credentials, offering him insights into emerging talent and modern offensive schemes.

The big picture: The Commanders are making strategic moves to reshape their coaching framework, which could signal a shift toward more innovative offensive schemes.

• This transformation may include adaptations from modern styles like the West Coast offense or spread systems, aiming to leverage Williams’ expertise in quarterback development.

The bottom line: D.J. Williams’ appointment as quarterbacks coach represents both a familial connection to the franchise's storied past and a potential pivot towards a more dynamic future for the Commanders as they seek to improve their standing in the league.