Something needed to be done. Dan Quinn probably didn't like it, but it was the only viable option remaining for the Washington Commanders' head coach.
After watching the Commanders get rolled over by the Detroit Lions offense, Quinn felt there was no option other than to take over defensive play-calling responsibilities from coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. He'll still be on the staff. Still, he'll be watching from the booth rather than forming the strategy.
This was well-received mainly among the fan base. They became sick and tired of watching Whitt's product. Injuries haven't helped, but something was missing. The spark had gone, and now Quinn is looking to get it back in some capacity.
Quinn is an exceptional defensive mind. He led the legendary Legion of Boom defense that spearheaded the Seattle Seahawks to a Super Bowl. While the talent level in Washington is nowhere close to that, there is nothing to suggest he cannot get more out of the options available.
Being tentative is not an option. Quinn must be bold and try everything to improve. With this in mind, here are five Commanders players who could thrive as the head coach gets to work on reshaping Washington's defense over the next seven games.
Commanders players set to thrive as Dan Quinn reshapes Washington’s defense
Jordan Magee - Commanders LB
The Washington Commanders have to get younger on defense (and everywhere else). They aren't playing for much other than pride the rest of the way, so head coach Dan Quinn's primary objective should be seeing what his fledgling stars can do with more responsibilities on their shoulders.
Although he remains raw, linebacker Jordan Magee should be installed into the starting lineup from here on. He remains a little rough around the edges, but allowing him to play with a sense of freedom, unafraid to make mistakes, and putting his exceptional athleticism to good use would be a good place to start.
Magee remains a little naive in a positional sense. He's almost too eager to make plays, rather than letting things develop in front of him. Harnessing this enthusiasm was difficult for defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. Still, Quinn's experience with players who have boasted his physical attributes in the past should help him get more out of the former Temple standout.
If it doesn't work out, the Commanders will have their answer about Magee's long-term aspirations. But standing pat at the defensive second level is not an option as Washington continues to be soft in the middle.