Fans and those in the media have spoken ad nauseam about the Washington Commanders' defensive struggles this season. Joe Whitt Jr. is coming under fire, but the players must also be held accountable for their constant underperformance with the spotlight glaring.
These problems have always been there. The difference this time around is that quarterback Jayden Daniels hasn't been able to bail them out. And those defenders who gave a good account of themselves last season have regressed considerably.
But now, the tipping point has been reached.
Dan Quinn will take over as Commanders defensive coordinator
After watching the film of their disastrous outing against the Detroit Lions, head coach Dan Quinn took matters into his own hands and confirmed that he will take over as defensive coordinator. However, Whitt will not be removed from the staff entirely.
"When something's not working, we shift from the question of why isn't it working to what do we need to do to get it right? Right now, that'll call for some change. I'll take over the role as the defensive coordinator and all that entails. Joe (Whitt)'s been my right hand man for years and took the news like a pro he is."
Dan Quinn
This is the move fans have begged for. Quinn is a highly regarded defensive mind. His loyalty towards Whitt perhaps gave him a longer leash than most envisaged. But when moving from the booth to the sideline didn't work in Week 10, this was only going to end one way.
What difference this will make is anyone's guess. Quinn's leadership should give everyone a massive morale boost, but it's also worth remembering that this unit is devoid of talent, inspiration, and everything in between. It will take a miracle to make the necessary improvements, but this gives Washington a better chance, if nothing else.
Whitt was always fighting a losing battle. He wasn't getting a tune out of his players, and they evidently waved the white flag on him during their latest capitulation at Northwest Stadium. They are unlikely to adopt similar methods with Quinn leading the charge, so it'll be interesting to see how things fare when the Commanders head off on their Spanish adventure to take on the Miami Dolphins.
As for Whitt? He's gone from getting a head coaching interview with the New York Jets to being relieved of his defensive coordinator duties in just a few short months. He's moving back to the booth and will still be involved, but it won't be the same again.
Deep down, he was probably relieved. His reputation was being tarnished by this constant underperformance. And now, the pressure could potentially grow on Quinn if he cannot make a better go of things.
This is a last resort to turn things around. Fans are eagerly anticipating what happens from here, but expecting miracles with this squad is unrealistic.