The Washington Commanders are turning the page on defense, and the man holding the pen is Daronte Jones.
Jones has been named the team’s new defensive coordinator, a move that signals a fresh approach under new head coach Dan Quinn. It’s a bold hire-Jones has never called plays at the NFL level-but it’s also one rooted in promise. For a franchise looking to shake off the dust of recent defensive struggles, this could be the kind of calculated risk that pays off in a big way.
Let’s be clear: Jones isn’t just some up-and-comer getting a shot because the Commanders ran out of options. He’s earned this.
From his time coaching defensive backs in the league to a stint as LSU’s defensive coordinator, Jones has built a reputation as a sharp mind and a strong leader. Most recently, he served under Brian Flores in Minnesota, and that experience might be the key to unlocking his potential in Washington.
Flores is known for running one of the most aggressive, unpredictable defenses in football. He’s demanding, detail-oriented, and not exactly the easiest coach to impress.
So when someone like Jones earns his trust-and essentially becomes his right-hand man-that says a lot. According to Vikings insider Kevin Seifert, who spoke on 106.7 The Fan, Jones didn’t just survive under Flores, he thrived.
That kind of pressure-cooker experience could serve him well now that he’s the one calling the shots.
“Brian Flores is not an easy guy to work for; he’s very demanding, very exacting,” Seifert said. “And Daronte Jones was his right-hand man… I'd be shocked if Jones doesn’t try to be aggressive and not sit back and let the offense dictate terms.”
That’s music to the ears of Commanders fans who’ve grown tired of watching a defense that felt passive and predictable. Under Joe Whitt Jr., Washington’s defense often lacked creativity and failed to adjust when things went sideways. Jones may not have NFL play-calling experience, but he brings a different energy-and an aggressive mindset molded by one of the league’s most unconventional defensive minds.
Jones is also known as a teacher, particularly when it comes to defensive backs. That’s a crucial skill for a team that’s struggled to develop young talent in the secondary.
He connects with players, motivates them, and earns their respect. That kind of leadership matters-especially in a locker room that’s trying to reset its identity.
Of course, this is still a high-wire act. Jones is stepping into a high-pressure role, and the margin for error in the NFL is razor thin.
But if Dan Quinn gives him room to operate-if he lets Jones shape this defense in his own image-there’s real potential here. This isn’t just about Xs and Os; it’s about building a culture of accountability, aggression, and adaptability.
The Vikings didn’t want to lose Jones. That much is clear. Now it’s up to Washington to find out why.
For a franchise that’s been searching for defensive direction, Daronte Jones might just be the answer they’ve been waiting for.