The Washington Commanders are taking their time in filling one of the most pivotal roles on their coaching staff - defensive coordinator. And while that patience might be testing fans' nerves, it could be a sign that head coach Dan Quinn has a very specific target in mind.
That target? Brian Flores.
Flores, currently the defensive coordinator in Minnesota, has been in the mix for several head coaching vacancies this cycle, including interviews with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens. But before those conversations heated up, he sat down with the Commanders - and that meeting may still be lingering in Washington’s plans.
There’s a lot of connective tissue here. Flores worked with Commanders GM Adam Peters during their time together in New England, and Quinn has a history with Raheem Morris, another candidate still in the running for a head coaching job, reportedly with the Arizona Cardinals. But Flores stands out - not just because of his résumé, but because of what he could bring to a defense that’s searching for a new identity.
The Commanders aren’t just looking for a coordinator. They’re looking for a culture-setter. And Flores, with his aggressive, no-nonsense defensive philosophy, might be the best fit on the board - if he’s still on the board.
Former Washington great Brian Mitchell certainly thinks so. The All-Pro return man, now a prominent voice on local radio, made it clear: if there’s even a sliver of a chance to land Flores, the Commanders have to stay in the fight.
“Brian Flores hasn’t said he’s going back to Minnesota,” Mitchell said on 106.7 The Fan. “Nothing’s been announced.
If you still think you have a shot, you wait. If he was off the table, then sure - move on.
But if he’s not? You might have to make it look very lucrative… assistant head coach, more influence - whatever it takes.
There’s a chance.”
Mitchell’s not wrong. This is the kind of swing-for-the-fences move that could change the trajectory of not just the defense, but the franchise.
Flores is widely respected for his ability to build tough, disciplined units. His time in Miami - where he turned a struggling team into a formidable defense - still stands out.
And in Minnesota this past season, he once again showed his ability to maximize talent and scheme around personnel.
For Quinn, now entering a critical third season in Washington, this hire isn’t just about filling a vacancy. It’s about survival. The Commanders haven’t found consistency on defense in recent years, and with ownership and front office expectations rising, Quinn can’t afford to miss.
That’s why the idea of giving Flores full defensive control - and perhaps even the title of assistant head coach - makes a lot of sense. Let him shape the defense.
Give him a voice in personnel decisions. And yes, pay him like he’s one of the most important pieces in the building.
Because if the Commanders are serious about turning this thing around, half-measures won’t cut it.
Right now, Washington appears to be in wait-and-see mode. Whether that’s because of Flores or another candidate still tied up in the head coaching carousel, the clock is ticking. But if Flores is still available - and interested - the Commanders have to be ready to go all in.
Dan Quinn’s future might just depend on it.