The Washington Commanders are still on the hunt for their next defensive coordinator, and while the process has stretched on longer than fans might like, Dan Quinn seems determined to get this one right. After all, this isn’t just about filling a vacancy - it’s about finding a leader who can reshape a defense that’s due for a major overhaul.
One name that was briefly in the mix is now officially off the board. Jonathan Gannon, formerly the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, has landed in Green Bay, where he’ll take over as the Packers’ new defensive coordinator.
He steps in for Jeff Hafley, who recently took the head coaching job with the Miami Dolphins. For Gannon, it’s a quick bounce back into a high-profile role - and one that might better suit his strengths.
For Washington, though, this development might be a blessing in disguise.
Gannon’s time in Arizona left plenty of questions. Despite having some solid pieces to work with, his defenses never quite clicked the way you'd expect.
The Cardinals consistently underperformed on that side of the ball, and Gannon’s motivational tactics - often described as unconventional - didn’t exactly inspire confidence. Ultimately, Arizona’s lack of defensive identity under his leadership played a big part in his exit.
According to ESPN’s John Keim, the idea of Gannon replacing Joe Whitt Jr. in Washington was never considered likely. Keim didn’t see it as a good fit, and in hindsight, that assessment feels spot-on.
That’s not to say Gannon can’t thrive in Green Bay - he’s walking into a situation with a much deeper talent pool, especially in the front seven. That’s where his scheme, which relies heavily on generating pressure with a four-man rush, can really hum.
Washington, on the other hand, doesn’t have that luxury - at least not yet. The Commanders’ defensive line is in flux, and with a roster shake-up expected this offseason, the next coordinator will need to be more adaptable. Gannon’s system wouldn’t have been a seamless fit, and given the state of the roster, it would’ve been a risky hire at best.
So where does Washington go from here?
Raheem Morris is one name to watch. He’s reportedly a finalist for the Cardinals’ head coaching job, but if that doesn’t materialize, he could be a strong option in D.C.
Morris has a long-standing connection with Quinn from their time together in Atlanta, and his defensive track record speaks for itself. He’s respected, experienced, and knows how to get the most out of a unit - all qualities the Commanders could use right now.
Another intriguing candidate is Al Harris. He interviewed with the Packers before they settled on Gannon, and if he’s on Quinn’s radar, Washington might have a leg up now that Green Bay is off the table.
Harris brings a player’s perspective and has steadily built his coaching résumé. If the Commanders are looking for a fresh voice with upside, he could be a compelling choice.
The clock is ticking. With free agency and the draft looming, the Commanders need to get their defensive staff in place sooner rather than later. Whoever takes over will be tasked with molding a new-look unit - one that fits not just philosophically, but schematically with Quinn’s vision.
And while Gannon’s move to Green Bay may have closed one door, it might’ve helped Washington avoid a misstep. His best work came in Philadelphia, where his front four could dominate without much blitzing. That formula doesn’t translate to every roster - and certainly not to one still in transition like Washington’s.
In the end, the Commanders may have dodged a bullet. Now it’s about finding the right fit - not just a name, but a leader who can help build a defense that actually fits the pieces on the board. The search continues, but the picture is starting to come into focus.