New Commanders Rumors on DC Search, Updated Candidates After Joe Whitt Jr. Firing

The Washington Commanders will interview Minnesota Vikings defensive passing game coordinator Daronte Jones on Sunday as part of their search for a new defensive coordinator, according to NFL Network's Tom Pelissero.

Washington most recently spoke with Pittsburgh Steelers defensive coordinator Teryl Austin about the role.

The Athletic's Nicki Jhabvala listed off the other candidates linked with the vacancy:

Fans can cross off Jonathan Gannon's name as the former Arizona Cardinals coach will lead the Green Bay Packers defense, per Pelissero.

Jones began his coaching career in 2001 and has worked at the high school, college and pro levels. The 47-year-old was Minnesota's defensive backs coach in 2020 and 2022, spending a season in between as LSU's defensive coordinator. The Vikings promoted him to his current role in 2023.

Jones' stock has soared this year thanks to the performance of the team's secondary. Minnesota allowed the second-fewest passing yards per game (158.5) and ranked in the top 10 in opponent completion percentage (62.4) and quarterback rating (85.7).

Commanders head coach Dan Quinn acted swiftly in the wake of a 5-12 finish. Both coordinators (Kliff Kingsbury and Joe Whitt Jr.) were let go.

Whoever succeeds Whitt will at least have plenty of room for improvement. Washington gave up more yards than any other team and was 27th in scoring defense.