The Washington Commanders have made a major coaching change, firing defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio after their defense has struggled all season. The decision comes as the team’s defense has allowed the most points in the NFL and ranks near the bottom in yards allowed.
The Commanders, who have lost eight of their last 10 games, had high hopes for their defense entering the season. However, the unit has failed to live up to expectations, consistently giving up big plays and failing to make many of their own.
In addition to firing Del Rio, the Commanders also dismissed defensive backs coach Brent Vieselmeyer. Coach Ron Rivera is expected to take over defensive playcalling for the rest of the season.
Commanders owner Josh Harris expressed disappointment and frustration with the team’s performance, stating that the organization will not waver from its mission to compete at the highest level and win sustainably over the long-term.
Del Rio had been with the team for the past four seasons and had struggled to produce consistent results during his tenure. Despite investing in the defensive line, which was considered one of the best in football, the unit failed to live up to expectations.
Del Rio’s controversial comments about the events at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, had also caused a distraction for the team, leading to a $100,000 fine from Rivera.
The Commanders will now look to regroup and improve their performance for the remainder of the season as they focus on evaluating areas for improvement in the offseason.