Commanders head coach Dan Quinn is excited to be teaching again
Dan Quinn spoke to the local media on Wednesday after the Commanders OTA session finished. He discussed a range of topics starting with the importance of practice to prepare for ‘winning time moments’.
Quinn clarified that it’s not possible to assess the physical hitting at this time of year, but that assessment of many other aspects of player training, conditioning and preparation can be evaluated.
Asked about the value of interior and edge pressure, DQ discussed how the coaches would assess the players and develop schemes based on the skills of players on the roster.
He also discussed the importance of this season for veteran DT Daron Payne. Quinn said that Payne is “off to an excellent start” on the season. On 2nd year player Johnny Newton, Quinn focused on the “uptick” in the DT’s leg strength since he is fully healthy this offseason. Asked about WR Noah Brown, DQ described him as an elite competitor. On Quan Martin, Quinn talked about the veteran safety’s toughness and competitiveness on display last season when the DB suffered injuries in both shoulders but played through the injuries. He expanded, saying that the move from nickel to safety enhanced Martin’s performance and ability to shine.
Asked about the integration of veteran players into the culture, Quinn started by praising the job done by GM Adam Peters in identifying players before talking about the process of onboarding free agent signings. He said that he never wants hard work and fun to be in opposition to each other in practice or in games.
Asked about joint practices, Quinn confirmed that the team would have joint practices with New England and Baltimore.
Talking about Will Harris, DQ mentioned that the DB has played both safety and corner, and that the coaches are still exploring his skills to determine how he can be featured in the defense this season.
LIVE: HC Dan Quinn speaks to the media after today’s OTA https://t.co/mdDljNJylM
— Washington Commanders (@Commanders) June 4, 2025
Daron Payne
Dan Quinn addressing the media. Said Daron Payne has had a remarkable offseason and has “certainly been impressed” with the work he’s put in
— Zach Selby (@ZachSelbyWC) June 4, 2025
More Daron Payne praise, from Dan Quinn: “Literally today, I said to him, ‘Man, I’ve been really impressed by your offseason.”
— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) June 4, 2025
Joint Practices
Dan Quinn confirmed what Vrabel and Harbaugh have already told reporters: The Commanders will have a joint practice with the Patriots ahead of their first preseason game, and the Ravens before their third preseason game.
— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) June 4, 2025
On the run
Dan Quinn had to run for a meeting so not every reporter got a question in for him today.
— CWallSports (@cwallse) June 4, 2025