Washington Commanders Hire Dan Quinn as Defensive Coordinator

New DC Impressed Head Coach Dan Quinn in Interview Process

Published on Feb. 10, 2026

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Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn addressed the media on Tuesday, highlighting his new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones. Quinn was impressed by Jones' defensive philosophy and teaching ability during the interview process, leading him to select Jones over other experienced and younger candidates.

Why it matters

The Commanders struggled on defense last season, so Quinn's hiring of Jones as the new defensive coordinator is a key move to improve the team's performance on that side of the ball. Quinn's positive assessment of Jones' football acumen and teaching skills suggest he believes Jones can help turn around the Commanders' defense.

The details

Quinn said he and Jones quickly connected over their shared defensive philosophy, including how to create turnovers and disguise coverages. Quinn described Jones as "one of those people you meet and you're like, 'All right. I get it,'" indicating their alignment on defensive strategy was a key factor in Quinn selecting Jones over other candidates with more experience.

  • Dan Quinn addressed the media on Tuesday, February 10, 2026.

The players

Dan Quinn

Head coach of the Washington Commanders.

Daronte Jones

The new defensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders, hired by Dan Quinn.

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What they’re saying

“I think from a football standpoint, we hit it off quickly.”

— Dan Quinn, Head Coach (commanders.com)

“All right. I get it.”

— Dan Quinn, Head Coach (commanders.com)

The takeaway

Quinn's hiring of Daronte Jones as the new defensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders suggests he believes Jones' defensive philosophy and teaching abilities can help turn around a struggling Commanders defense.