Commanders may suddenly have an elite Joe Whitt upgrade to consider

"Dan Quinn isn't planning to make any knee-jerk changes to the Washington Commanders' coaching staff without thorough investigations and conversations. However, the head coach cannot get caught on the back foot with the hiring cycle already underway. And when it comes to the future of defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr., his fate should be pretty easy to figure out. Whitt got demoted from defensive play-calling duties. Quinn took the lead and assumed control of the unit."

"Quinn is planning to have some difficult talks in the coming days before deciding on further action. Whitt seems the most likely to depart, but smoke continues to rise about offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury also taking his chances elsewhere for good measure. The Commanders need to put contingency plans in place if they haven't already. Quinn's next defensive hire will be crucial, and there is an overlooked candidate well worth considering who could now be seeking a fresh start elsewhere."

"The Browns had plenty of problems in 2025, but their defense wasn't one of them. This group was excellent throughout the campaign, with All-Pro defensive end Myles Garrett breaking the NFL single-season sacks record and the unit keeping them in games they had no business being in. Of course, they are - or were - led by Jim Schwartz. His credentials and experience need no introduction."

Dan Quinn is proceeding cautiously and will not make impulsive coaching changes without investigations and conversations. The hiring cycle is already underway, so timely decisions are necessary. Defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. lost defensive play-calling duties, with Quinn assuming control, and the unit showed limited improvement. Quinn plans difficult conversations before choosing further action, and Whitt appears most likely to depart while offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury is also under scrutiny. The Commanders need contingency plans and a crucial defensive hire. Jim Schwartz, recently leading a top-performing Browns defense, emerges as a logical and experienced candidate.

Read at Riggo's Rag