The Washington Commanders’ search for a new defensive coordinator continues to widen, and the latest name in the mix is a familiar one to longtime NFL fans: Teryl Austin.
Austin recently interviewed with the Commanders, adding another experienced voice to a growing list of candidates. At 60 years old, Austin brings more than two decades of NFL coaching experience to the table, including the last four seasons as defensive coordinator under Mike Tomlin in Pittsburgh. With Tomlin stepping down, Austin is now free to explore new opportunities-and Washington is clearly interested.
Austin’s football journey has come full circle in a way. He played his college ball at the University of Pittsburgh and initially entered the NFL as a member of the then-Washington Redskins.
Though he didn’t make the team, he went on to play in the CFL before shifting his focus to coaching in 1991. What followed was a steady climb through the coaching ranks, starting in college football and eventually landing in the NFL.
Here’s a quick rundown of Austin’s NFL stops:
- Seattle Seahawks (2003-06): Defensive backs coach
- Arizona Cardinals (2007-09): Defensive backs coach
- Baltimore Ravens (2011-13): Secondary coach
- Detroit Lions (2014-17): Defensive coordinator
- Cincinnati Bengals (2018): Defensive coordinator
- Pittsburgh Steelers (2019-21): Senior defensive assistant & secondary coach
- Pittsburgh Steelers (2022-25): Defensive coordinator
He also spent a season at the University of Florida in 2010 as their defensive coordinator, showing his versatility across both college and pro levels.
In total, Austin has served as a defensive coordinator in the NFL for nine seasons-a level of experience few candidates can match. While his recent units haven’t consistently ranked among the league’s elite, he’s widely respected around the league for his football IQ, leadership, and ability to develop talent in the secondary.
Washington’s search has been extensive. They’ve interviewed at least eight candidates, including Al Harris, the Bears’ pass game coordinator and defensive backs coach. Their top rumored target, Jeff Ulbrich, ultimately stayed with the Falcons, and Brian Flores appears to be staying in Minnesota unless a head coaching opportunity pulls him away.
The Commanders parted ways with former defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. on January 6, shortly after the 2025 season wrapped. Now, they’re casting a wide net to find the right defensive mind to help reshape a unit that struggled through much of last season.
Teryl Austin may not be the flashiest name in the mix, but his resume speaks volumes. With deep roots in the league and a reputation for steady leadership, he’s a candidate worth watching as Washington zeroes in on its next defensive architect.