Posted on Nov 10

Commanders hire Quinn as DC, seeking defensive turnaround amid struggles and injuries

Posted Nov 10, 2025

#marshon-lattimore #roster-move #commanders

The Washington Commanders have made a significant coaching change, hiring Dan Quinn as their new defensive coordinator in a bid to revive a struggling defense.

Why it matters: The Commanders are currently facing a critical juncture, having lost five consecutive games and ranking near the bottom of the league in both scoring defense and yards allowed.

With a record of 3-7, the team has allowed an unprecedented 154 points over the last four contests.
They rank 28th in scoring defense and 30th in yards allowed per game, reflecting a dire need for improvement.

What’s new: Dan Quinn, previously the defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, takes over with a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective.

Quinn's appointment comes after a disheartening 44-22 loss to the Detroit Lions, where the Commanders failed to force a single punt.
He aims to shift the focus from why the current system is failing to actionable strategies for recovery.

Yes, but: While Quinn brings expertise, the situation remains complicated due to significant injuries within the roster.

Key players like Marshon Lattimore and Deatrich Wise Jr. are on injured reserve, impacting the defense's capability to execute even his schemes effectively.
This season saw the team drop from 18th in points allowed last year to their current position, showcasing a marked regression.

What to watch: The Commanders defensive configuration will likely evolve under Quinn's leadership.

He plans to retain Joe Whitt, the former defensive coordinator, in a role that emphasizes pass coverage, ensuring continuity while incorporating new ideas.
Quinn's prior experience with the Cowboys could facilitate a quicker adaptation for players adjusting to his system.

Between the lines: Quinn's approach reflects a pragmatic mindset, emphasizing immediate tactical improvements rather than focusing solely on past failures.

He stated, "When something's not working, we shift from the question of why isn't it working to what do we need to do to get it right."
This mentality may inspire a renewed commitment from players who have struggled under the weight of previous performances.

The bottom line: The Commanders are at a crossroads, and Quinn's ability to galvanize the defense will be pivotal in determining the team's trajectory for the remainder of the season.

As injuries continue to plague the squad, the effectiveness of Quinn's strategies will be closely monitored, making this a crucial period for both the coach and the team.

Commanders hire Quinn as DC, seeking defensive turnaround amid struggles and injuries

Alex Parker

Posted Nov 10, 2025

The Washington Commanders have made a significant coaching change, hiring Dan Quinn as their new defensive coordinator in a bid to revive a struggling defense.

Why it matters: The Commanders are currently facing a critical juncture, having lost five consecutive games and ranking near the bottom of the league in both scoring defense and yards allowed.

With a record of 3-7, the team has allowed an unprecedented 154 points over the last four contests.

They rank 28th in scoring defense and 30th in yards allowed per game, reflecting a dire need for improvement.

What’s new: Dan Quinn, previously the defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, takes over with a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective.

Quinn's appointment comes after a disheartening 44-22 loss to the Detroit Lions, where the Commanders failed to force a single punt.

He aims to shift the focus from why the current system is failing to actionable strategies for recovery.

Yes, but: While Quinn brings expertise, the situation remains complicated due to significant injuries within the roster.

Key players like Marshon Lattimore and Deatrich Wise Jr. are on injured reserve, impacting the defense's capability to execute even his schemes effectively.

This season saw the team drop from 18th in points allowed last year to their current position, showcasing a marked regression.

What to watch: The Commanders defensive configuration will likely evolve under Quinn's leadership.

He plans to retain Joe Whitt, the former defensive coordinator, in a role that emphasizes pass coverage, ensuring continuity while incorporating new ideas.

Quinn's prior experience with the Cowboys could facilitate a quicker adaptation for players adjusting to his system.

Between the lines: Quinn's approach reflects a pragmatic mindset, emphasizing immediate tactical improvements rather than focusing solely on past failures.

He stated, "When something's not working, we shift from the question of why isn't it working to what do we need to do to get it right."

This mentality may inspire a renewed commitment from players who have struggled under the weight of previous performances.

The bottom line: The Commanders are at a crossroads, and Quinn's ability to galvanize the defense will be pivotal in determining the team's trajectory for the remainder of the season.

As injuries continue to plague the squad, the effectiveness of Quinn's strategies will be closely monitored, making this a crucial period for both the coach and the team.