Commanders add sideline coach as defense allows 28.7 points per game

The Washington Commanders are adding a veteran coach to their sideline staff this week, a move driven by a defense that is currently the 31st worst in the league. The unit has surrendered 28.7 points per game through the first seven weeks of the season.

Defensive coordinator Daronte Jones initiated a role reversal among his assistants this bye week. Coaches responsible for pass defense were assigned to evaluate the run game, while those handling the run defense reviewed the pass scheme. Jones described the initiative as a way to get a fresh set of eyes. He stated that the staff tweaked the defensive scheme based on the feedback and expects to record more stops against Philadelphia.

Head coach Dan Quinn also brought in Steve Wilks to assist with defensive game planning. Wilks previously served as the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals and the interim head coach of the Carolina Panthers. He most recently worked as the defensive coordinator for the New York Jets. Quinn said Wilks will focus on planning early in the week but will also wear a headset and roam the sidelines during the Sunday Night Football game. Quinn noted that Wilks was not initially scheduled to be part of the game-day staff but will be present for this specific matchup.

The Commanders face a critical injury to their offense as well. The team placed wide receiver Terry McLaurin on injured reserve on Wednesday. The 31-year-old tore his patellar tendon during the Week 6 loss to the San Francisco 49ers and will not return this season. He finished the stretch with 15 catches for 230 yards and one touchdown in five games.

Quinn said the coaching staff intends to give rookie Antonio Williams a higher volume of touches in McLaurin’s absence. The team also activated veteran Van Jefferson from the practice squad. Stefon Diggs, the 32-year-old Pro Bowler, is reducing his practice reps to stay healthy. He will skip Wednesday practices for the remainder of the season.

The Commanders, who are currently winless in the NFC East, host the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday. The Eagles are 2-5 and have lost five consecutive games. They will play without starting quarterback Jalen Hurts, who is out for the season, and are dealing with a lengthy injury list. Fans in Philadelphia have called for head coach Nick Sirianni to be replaced.

Washington won the Week 1 matchup against Philadelphia. The Eagles need a victory to stay in the divisional race. Quinn said his job security remains tied to the team’s standing in the NFC East, and a loss to a wounded opponent would likely increase pressure on the coaching staff.