Washington Commanders’ head coach Dan Quinn has made a significant addition to his coaching staff. Ken Norton Jr., a former All-Pro LB and Super Bowl record-holder, will be joining the Commanders as their linebackers coach. Norton has previous experience working with Quinn, as they were both part of the Seattle Seahawks’ ‘Legion of Boom’ defense that won the Super Bowl in 2014. Norton is the only player in history to win three-straight Lombardi Trophies, with two coming from his time with the Dallas Cowboys and one with the San Francisco 49ers. His expertise will be crucial in addressing the longstanding issues at the linebacker position for the Commanders.
In addition to Norton, there were other new coaches who joined Quinn’s staff on February 12. The previous linebacker play under Ron Rivera was subpar, despite the selection of Jamin Davis in the 2021 NFL draft. Davis showed signs of improvement before a shoulder injury ended his season prematurely. With the right coaching, Davis has the potential to unlock his athletic range and make impactful plays, as demonstrated by his forced fumble against Russell Wilson and the Denver Broncos. Norton, known for his sideline-to-sideline speed as a player and coach, will surely appreciate Davis’ lateral quickness.
Norton has a history of working with talented linebackers, such as Bobby Wagner and K.J. Wright in Seattle. However, his most notable project was helping Malcolm Smith, a seventh-round pick, become the Super Bowl MVP. Norton’s ability to develop and maximize the potential of his linebackers will be invaluable to the Commanders’ defense.
Overall, the addition of Ken Norton Jr. to the coaching staff is a significant move for the Washington Commanders. With his experience, track record, and ability to develop linebackers, Norton will play a crucial role in improving the team’s defense and addressing the longstanding issues at the position.
SMITH’S SIZE NO ISSUE FOR COMMANDERS’ DEFENSE
In a surprising move, the Washington Commanders have signed linebacker Smith, despite his smaller stature. Standing at 6-foot and 225 pounds, Smith may be undersized for his position, but head coach Norton sees value in his speed on the field. This is not only good news for Smith, but also for fellow linebacker Cox, who stands at 6-foot-3 and 235 pounds. Cox, a free agent, previously played under Norton during their time together in Dallas. His familiarity with Norton’s defensive style makes him a strong candidate for re-signing with the Commanders.
While Norton has some promising options to work with on defense, the same cannot be said for the offensive line. Offensive line coach Bobby Johnson has joined the Commanders’ staff after being fired by the New York Giants. This hiring decision raises eyebrows, considering the Giants allowed a staggering 85 sacks this season, the second-most in NFL history. Johnson’s lines were also dominated by Quinn’s Cowboys defense, who recorded 12 sacks in just two games against them. Johnson will need to find ways to rebuild a struggling offensive line that surrendered 65 sacks this season, especially since the Commanders are likely to select a franchise quarterback in the upcoming draft.
Improving both the offensive line and the defense is crucial for the Commanders, as they ranked last in points and yards allowed. Quinn has made significant changes to the coaching staff, bringing in new defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. and former Broncos assistant John Pagano. Pagano, a highly sought-after coach this offseason, will join the Commanders’ staff as a defensive assistant. With the coaching staff now taking shape, Quinn and his team can focus on bolstering their roster through free agency and the draft.
As the Commanders aim to rebuild their team, it is clear that they need both talented players and superior coaching to turn their fortunes around. The road ahead will not be easy, but with the right moves, the Commanders have the potential to become a formidable force in the league once again.
James Dudko is a sports reporter covering the New York Giants, Washington Commanders, New England Patriots, and Baltimore Ravens.
According to the Source heavy.com