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By Ellis Williams
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Steve Smith Sr. questioned whether Washington Commanders coach Dan Quinn is better suited to being a defensive coordinator as the team struggles through another disappointing stretch.
The former NFL receiver delivered the criticism on ESPN’s Get Up on Tuesday, two days after Washington’s 20-13 loss to the Los Angeles Rams dropped the Commanders to 2-5-1. Washington had chances to tie the game late but again failed to turn a competitive performance into a victory.
For Quinn and quarterback Jayden Daniels, the next opportunity comes quickly. The Commanders visit the New York Giants on Thursday night, leaving little time to fix the inconsistencies that have defined the first half of their season.
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“Dan Quinn really has to ask himself,” Smith said, “is he fit to be a head coach or a permanent coordinator?”
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Smith’s criticism targets Quinn’s ability to oversee the entire team. Sunday provided another example of Washington struggling to sustain its early success. The Commanders scored on their first two possessions, but their final two drives ended with a turnover on downs and a fumble on a last-play lateral attempt.
Washington finished with 313 yards, with 157 coming on its first three possessions. On the other side, Rams receiver Puka Nacua accounted for 150 of Matthew Stafford’s 228 passing yards. The Commanders forced two turnovers but still allowed Los Angeles to take the lead twice after halftime.
Quinn acknowledged Monday that he is tired of repeating the need for four consistent quarters. He also said the offensive line had not met the team’s standard against the Rams, while backing the offensive system and calling for better execution.
“I like the system,” Quinn said. “I like what we can be capable of.”
The distinction Smith raised is significant given Quinn’s coaching history. He coordinated Seattle’s defense during consecutive Super Bowl appearances and later earned the Associated Press Assistant Coach of the Year award for his work with Dallas in 2021.
Quinn has also won as a head coach. He took Atlanta to Super Bowl LI and led Washington to a 12-5 regular season and an NFC Championship Game appearance in 2024, his first year with the franchise. Those results provide context for a criticism centered on the team’s current struggles.
Now in his third season in Washington, Quinn faces the more immediate task of getting his team to finish games. He acknowledged Monday how badly the Commanders need a win against the division-leading Giants. Thursday offers a chance to answer Smith’s criticism with a more complete performance.
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