Washington Commanders Hire D.J. Williams as New QB Coach

Son of legendary QB Doug Williams takes on coaching role with family's NFL team

Apr. 13, 2026 at 5:49am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a football coaching scene, with sharp, overlapping planes of burgundy, gold, and white shapes representing the players, coaches, and field.The Commanders' new QB coach D.J. Williams brings a unique family legacy and coaching experience to the team's quarterback development efforts.Washington Today

The Washington Commanders have appointed D.J. Williams, son of former Commanders quarterback Doug Williams, as their new quarterback coach. D.J. Williams brings experience from coaching roles with the Atlanta Falcons and has a unique family connection to the team's history.

Why it matters

The Commanders are looking to develop their quarterback position, and D.J. Williams' expertise in working with NFL quarterbacks could provide valuable insight. However, the team also interviewed another candidate, adding intrigue to the hiring process.

The details

D.J. Williams has steadily risen through the coaching ranks since 2017, starting with entry-level positions and eventually becoming an assistant quarterbacks coach for the Atlanta Falcons. His experience and expertise in developing quarterbacks will be a valuable asset to the Commanders as they navigate the challenges of finding the right quarterback to lead the team. The team also interviewed Mike Bercovici, the Panthers' assistant quarterback coach, for the position.

  • The Washington Commanders announced the hiring of D.J. Williams as their new quarterback coach on April 13, 2026.

The players

D.J. Williams

The new quarterback coach for the Washington Commanders, who has experience coaching quarterbacks in the NFL.

Doug Williams

The legendary former quarterback for the Washington Commanders and current executive in the team's front office, who is the father of D.J. Williams.

Mike Bercovici

The assistant quarterback coach for the Carolina Panthers, who was also interviewed for the Commanders' quarterback coach position.

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What they’re saying

“D.J. Williams' unique background and experience will be a valuable asset to our team as we continue to develop our quarterback position.”

— Ron Rivera, Head Coach, Washington Commanders

What’s next

The Commanders will look to D.J. Williams to work closely with the team's quarterbacks and help identify the right player to lead the offense.

The takeaway

The Commanders' decision to hire D.J. Williams, with his family connection and coaching experience, highlights the team's commitment to finding the right quarterback to guide the franchise's future success.