Under-fire Commanders coach walking straight into crisis as league watches

Joe Whitt Jr. is a no-nonsense figure who instantly became a Washington Commanders fan favorite last season. Just four games into the 2025 campaign, the novelty is wearing off.

The Commanders' defense has struggled this season. It has improved in two primary metrics — third-down conversion rate and run defense — but that's about it. The same problems persist. A firm blueprint now exists on how to counteract their scheme, which will not go unnoticed by future opponents.

This is a big problem that Whitt must solve. He's coming under fire for his failure to make adjustments. It's not easy with so many injuries, but excuses are wearing thin. Actions speak louder than words, especially with Justin Herbert and the Los Angeles Chargers next up at SoFi Stadium.

Commanders' defense needs to find the right answers to their lingering problems

The pass-rush is struggling to generate pressure. Washington's secondary is vulnerable to quick attacks and pre-snap motion. Nothing seems to be going right, and the Commanders don't look like a squad capable of going deep into the postseason.

Whitt will no doubt read the riot act to his players this week. What's happening is unacceptable, and head coach Dan Quinn was clearly displeased after the defeat to the Atlanta Falcons. Washington's defense is looking old and out of ideas. The coordinator needs to bring an extra spark to the game plan, whether that involves personnel or schematic alterations remains to be seen.

This is not the start Whitt had in mind with the weapons at his disposal. His reputation flourished during a highly successful first season in Washington, an achievement that even earned him a head coaching interview with the New York Jets. That won't be happening during the upcoming hiring cycle if the same trend continues.

The league is watching closely. Coaches can rise and fall quickly when it comes to consideration for head coaching positions. There is always a hot new name or two that make it more difficult for others. That will be the last thing on Whitt's mind right now; his primary focus will be on helping the Commanders get out of their slump by any means necessary.

Washington's offense hasn't been terrible, even though they are also missing some key men. Defensively, it's a mess, and there are already calls from some sections of the fan base for Quinn to take over the defensive play-calling.

Quinn's shown no signs that change is imminent. But if the Commanders' freefall continues, drastic measures might be needed.

A massive effort is needed from Whitt and his defensive players in the days to come. How they respond will tell fans everything they need to know.