The Washington Commanders’ search for a new defensive coordinator hit a significant roadblock when Brian Flores opted to stay put in Minnesota. Still, head coach Dan Quinn isn’t out of options—and one familiar name is quickly emerging as a leading candidate.
Flores was widely viewed as the crown jewel of available defensive play-callers this offseason. Renowned for his creativity, aggression, and elite pressure packages, the Vikings defensive coordinator was a natural target for a Commanders team desperate for a defensive reset. That pursuit, however, is officially over.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Flores signed a contract extension with Minnesota and will return as defensive coordinator if he doesn’t land a head coaching job this cycle. For Quinn, that’s another missed opportunity after already seeing another strong candidate elect to remain with the Atlanta Falcons.
Yet Washington isn’t starting from scratch.
Quinn Reunites With a Trusted Name
The Commanders are scheduled to interview Chicago Bears passing game coordinator Al Harris, per ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler. Fowler also noted Harris interviewed with Green Bay, underscoring his rising stock after the Bears led the NFL with 23 interceptions.
While Harris lacks Flores’ star power, his candidacy makes sense—especially for Quinn. The two previously worked together with the Dallas Cowboys, and that familiarity could give Harris a leg up in Washington’s search.
Harris has long been viewed as a potential defensive coordinator, even previously mentioned as a possible replacement for Joe Whitt Jr., another Quinn assistant. Whitt Jr. was relieved of play-calling duties during the season, but the move did little to fix Washington’s defensive woes. The Commanders remained soft against the run and consistently burned by explosive passing plays.
Harris’ strength lies in the latter area. His Bears defense thrived on takeaways, forcing turnovers at an elite rate. That’s an area Washington sorely lacks and one that could immediately improve under Harris’ guidance.
Turnovers vs. True Defensive Progress
The concern, however, is whether opportunism alone equals defensive improvement.
Despite leading the league in interceptions and forcing 12 fumbles (recovering eight), Chicago’s defense ranked 23rd in points allowed and 29th in total yards, according to Pro Football Reference. Big plays came at a cost, and the Bears often struggled with consistency and containment—issues Washington already knows too well.
For Quinn, the challenge is finding more than just splash plays. The Commanders need structure, adaptability, and a scheme capable of evolving over time—not simply a defense that gambles for turnovers.
Flores would’ve been the ideal solution, offering a proven, sophisticated system built on pressure and disguise. Without him, Washington must weigh upside against experience.
Commanders Still Have Viable Paths
Even with Flores off the board, the Commanders still have intriguing options. Several former head coaches with defensive pedigrees remain available, including names familiar to Quinn from his Atlanta days.
Jonathan Gannon, recently dismissed by the Arizona Cardinals but a Super Bowl–winning defensive coordinator in Philadelphia, is among the candidates. Others reportedly under consideration include Patrick Graham, Joe Cullen, Dennard Wilson, and Karl Scott, per The Washington Post’s Tom Schad.
It’s a respectable pool, but Washington needs more than competence. This defense requires an X-factor—someone capable of building a tough, disciplined, and adaptable unit that can finally support Quinn’s vision.
Flores fit that bill perfectly. Now, Quinn must find the closest approximation—and make it count.
