The Washington Commanders are playing the waiting game when it comes to naming their next defensive coordinator - and that’s not by accident. While the offensive side of the ball has already started to take shape through internal promotions, head coach Dan Quinn is taking a more deliberate approach on defense. And there’s a good reason for that.
Quinn appears to be keeping the door open for a candidate who’s still in the mix for a head coaching job - someone he likely knows well and trusts deeply. That’s led many around the league to connect the dots to a familiar name: Raheem Morris.
Morris, currently a candidate for the Arizona Cardinals' head coaching vacancy, is one of the more respected defensive minds in the game. And if Arizona goes in a different direction, Morris is expected to be one of the most sought-after defensive coordinator options on the market. According to league insiders, he’s already drawing interest from multiple teams - and the Commanders are firmly in that conversation.
The connection between Morris and Quinn runs deep. The two worked together during their time with the Atlanta Falcons, and their professional bond has only strengthened since. If Morris doesn’t land a head coaching role, Quinn would likely love the opportunity to reunite - but he won’t be the only one making that call.
Morris also has strong ties to Kyle Shanahan and Matt LaFleur, both of whom are in the market for new defensive coordinators after their respective DCs took head coaching jobs. Shanahan and LaFleur, like Quinn, were part of the same Washington coaching staff under Mike Shanahan years ago - a coaching tree that continues to branch out across the league. That shared history could give Morris multiple appealing options, especially with the 49ers and Packers boasting some of the most complete rosters in the NFL.
So while Quinn’s patience is understandable, it’s not without risk. If Morris becomes available, Washington will have to compete with two of the league’s premier franchises - both of whom have legitimate Super Bowl aspirations and the defensive talent to match. That’s a tough pitch to beat, even with a strong personal connection.
And then there’s Brian Flores, another name that’s been linked to Washington. He reportedly interviewed with the Commanders before shifting his focus to other opportunities, including potential roles with the Ravens and Steelers. Flores brings a tough, disciplined defensive mindset and head-coaching experience - qualities that would fit well with what Quinn is trying to build in D.C.
The challenge for Quinn is navigating this uncertain landscape without losing momentum. If he waits too long and misses out on his top targets, the Commanders could be left scrambling to fill a critical role on his staff. On the other hand, if he strikes too early, he might miss the chance to land a top-tier coordinator like Morris or Flores.
This is the balancing act every new head coach faces - especially one tasked with reshaping a defense that needs a clear identity and strong leadership. Whether it ends up being Morris, Flores, or another candidate, Quinn’s decision at defensive coordinator will be one of his most important early moves as the Commanders’ head coach.
And when the moment comes, he’ll need to move decisively. Because in today’s NFL, hesitation can cost you the coach who changes everything.