Commanders Bolster Defensive Staff with College Hires

As the Washington Commanders enter the 2026 offseason, the organization is actively reshaping its coaching staff to address last season’s struggles. Head coach Dan Quinn has prioritized strengthening the defensive unit, bringing in both experienced NFL assistants and promising collegiate coaches. The latest addition appears to be Jake Olsen, LSU’s safeties coach, who helped the Tigers finish among the nation’s top 25 in scoring defense.

Olsen, who spent the past two seasons at LSU, has earned a reputation for developing defensive backs and coordinating strong secondary play. Sources report that the Commanders are finalizing plans to bring him into the NFL ranks, adding his expertise to a defense that finished 5–12 in 2025–26. His experience coaching elite college talent provides a new perspective for Washington’s defensive schemes.

This move follows the recent hiring of Daronte Jones as defensive coordinator. Jones, who has coached under notable NFL names including Brian Flores, Vance Joseph, and Mike Zimmer, brings a wealth of professional experience and a proven ability to lead defensive units. His guidance will be complemented by Olsen’s youth-focused developmental skills, creating a blend of seasoned strategy and up-and-coming coaching talent.

Washington’s approach to staffing has increasingly included tapping the collegiate ranks. Earlier in the offseason, the team added Eric Henderson from USC as defensive line coach and defensive run game coordinator. Henderson’s NFL and college experience, including work with stars like Aaron Donald, reflects the organization’s strategy of combining proven professional expertise with emerging coaching talent.

1. Jake Olsen’s Track Record

Jake Olsen’s tenure at LSU has been marked by notable success in developing the secondary and improving team defense. Under his guidance, the Tigers finished in the top 25 nationally for scoring defense, a significant accomplishment in the highly competitive SEC. Olsen is praised for his teaching ability, attention to detail, and innovative approaches to defensive backfield play. At LSU, Olsen worked closely with young players, helping them transition from high school to elite college football, emphasizing fundamentals, positioning, and decision-making. His success at the collegiate level signals potential for a smooth transition to the NFL, where he will face a different set of challenges but can apply similar developmental strategies. Olsen’s reputation also includes adaptability—he has been able to adjust schemes to opponents’ strengths and weaknesses, which will be valuable in preparing Washington’s defensive backs against diverse NFL offenses. His hiring is expected to complement Daronte Jones’ overarching defensive vision, creating continuity and depth in the coaching staff. The Commanders’ decision to hire Olsen reflects a broader league trend of scouting top collegiate coaches for NFL roles, particularly those who excel at developing young talent and implementing innovative schemes. For Washington, Olsen represents an infusion of energy and new ideas into a defense seeking improvement.

2. Strengthening the Defensive Backbone

The Commanders have made defense a focal point of their offseason rebuild. Daronte Jones’ appointment as defensive coordinator provides a foundation of experience and NFL-level strategy, while additions like Olsen and Henderson create specialized coaching depth. Together, these hires are designed to elevate fundamentals, player development, and in-game adjustments. Eric Henderson’s dual role as defensive line coach and defensive run game coordinator adds further expertise, particularly in managing front-seven dynamics and pass-rush techniques. Henderson’s previous work with the Rams and standout players such as Aaron Donald gives him insight into coaching at the highest level. The mix of NFL-tested assistants and top-tier collegiate talent allows Washington to cultivate a balance between innovation and experience. Quinn’s leadership emphasizes collaboration and specialization, ensuring each coach has a clear role and impact on the team’s performance. This comprehensive approach is intended to transform Washington’s defense from a struggling unit into a more disciplined, cohesive, and competitive group in the 2026 season. The coaching hires indicate a commitment to long-term improvement and strategic growth.

3. Looking Ahead to 2026

The Commanders’ 5–12 record in 2025–26 underscores the need for a foundational reset. The combination of cap space, draft assets, and coaching hires positions Washington to address roster and tactical deficiencies while laying the groundwork for sustained success. The coaching staff will focus on integrating new schemes, developing young talent, and improving defensive consistency. Olsen’s background in college development, Henderson’s experience with elite pass rushers, and Jones’ NFL leadership create a multi-layered structure capable of supporting these goals. Offseason planning will include evaluating personnel, adding talent through free agency and the draft, and coordinating specialized coaching efforts. The objective is to ensure the defensive unit is prepared to compete immediately while fostering long-term growth. As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on how these hires translate into on-field results, setting the stage for a reenergized and more competitive Washington squad in 2026.