For Joe Whitt Jr., the Washington Commanders are not starting from scratch on the defensive end because they already have the likes of Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne.
The newly minted Washington Commanders defensive coordinator expressed his optimism during his introductory press conference recently, which has the fans feeling good about the future, even if they have their work cut out for them.
“Everything starts up front. I’m a backend guy, but when you see me at practice, I’m gonna be; even when I was the cornerback coach in Green Bay or Louisville, it doesn’t matter. I’m always going to the big guys. It starts up front,” said Whitt Jr.
“I’m a believer of that, and that’s where we’re going. I’m glad we have those guys because that’s where it all starts,” he added.
Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne were productive for the Washington Commanders in 2023
After trading Montez Sweat and Chase Young, the Washington Commanders were ranked dead last in total defense in the NFL, as they gave up 388.9 average defensive yards and 59 touchdowns in 2023.
Jonathan Allen and Daron Payne were two of the brightest spots on the team, however, last season. Allen recorded 53 combined tackles (30 solo), 5.5 sacks, and one pass defended, while Payne also had 53 combined tackles (32 solo), 4.0 sacks, and four passes defended.
Chemistry is important for a rebuilding team like the Washington Commanders, and Allen and Payne have that because they’ve been teammates since 2015 when both were playing for Alabama.
Joe Whitt Jr. ready to get to work for the Washington Commanders
Joe Whitt Jr. reportedly left a good impression on the Washington Commanders during his first press conference. According to Bryan Manning from USA Today Sports, the long-time deputy to Dan Quinn looks perfect for the job.
“He is overdue for his chance at being a defensive coordinator, and if things go the way this staff thinks they will, (Joe) Whitt will be an NFL head coach. He has everything: leadership, the “it factor,” teaching, scheme, and relationships,” wrote Manning.