It didn’t take long for new Washington defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. to become a fan favorite.
On Thursday, Whitt began his press conference by talking about how grateful he was to be in Washington. He mentioned the franchise’s once-glorious past but, most importantly, is focused on energizing the team, the city, and the “whole fan base.”
Whitt didn’t stop there.
For years, fans have debated the 4-3 defense and the 3-4 defense and which is best for the Commanders. In Whitt’s case, it isn’t about the structure or scheme — it’s about the play style.
What is that play style? Whitt says Washington will have a “run and hit defense.” Even better, the Commanders “are gonna put bodies on people in a violent manner.”
Are you ready to run through a wall for Whitt yet?
Whitt said it’s the coaches’ responsibility to teach the players. That’s why head coach Dan Quinn and Whitt put this specific staff together. However, you won’t be around if things aren’t done the right way.
That’s called accountability. Washington has lacked that for years — everywhere.
Here’s one: “Ball is life.”
Whitt discussed creating turnovers, something he and Quinn did a lot of with the Cowboys over the past three years. “Ball is life” is something Whitt said you will hear him talk about often because the ball is “like air, and we gotta have it, we gotta get it.”
Washington’s defense, led by Quinn and Whitt, will have an identity. Players will be coached — and coached hard. If you can’t take that, you won’t be around. That’s a welcome change for the Commanders.
Whitt is grateful to be in Washington. He has so much love and respect for Quinn, calling him the “best human being that I’ve probably been around in football.” Whitt praised Quinn for writing handwritten notes to Whitt’s kids and even breaking down film with Whitt’s young son when he was struggling.
You can’t teach that type of loyalty and respect.
One thing was clear throughout Whitt’s time speaking with the Washington media: Whatever “it” is, Whitt has “it.” It’s not his words; it’s his confidence and delivery. And he’s had the results to back it up.
He is overdue for his chance at being a defensive coordinator, and if things go the way this staff thinks they will, Whitt will be an NFL head coach. He has everything: leadership, the “it factor,” teaching, scheme, and relationships. Whitt is the real deal.
The Joe Whitt Jr. highlights you didn’t know you needed:
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— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) February 16, 2024
Washington fans have seen coaches win the presser before. But something about Quinn, Whitt, and this staff just feels different.
So, are you ready to run through that wall yet?