The Washington Commanders experienced significant changes this week following their Thanksgiving Day loss to the Dallas Cowboys. Defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio and defensive backs coach Brent Vieselmeyer were relieved of their duties. With five games remaining, head coach Ron Rivera will now take on the play-calling responsibilities for the defense, presenting a challenging adjustment for the team. Quarterback Sam Howell, who has demonstrated growth in his performance this season, expressed his disappointment at seeing Del Rio and Vieselmeyer lose their jobs.
Howell stated, “It’s definitely disappointing to see. I have a lot of respect for Coach Del Rio and Vies. Thought they did a tremendous job. It’s just unfortunate how the season has gone. So, it’s definitely disappointing to see them go, two people that I had a lot of respect for. But at the end of the day, there’s still a lot of football left, and we got games to win. Our focus is on Miami this week. Whoever’s out there playing, whoever’s out there coaching, it doesn’t change anything for us. We just try to go out there and give it our all every single day.”
With five games left, the Commanders are aiming to salvage the season. This could involve Howell’s continued improvement to address concerns about the quarterback position, the defense strengthening under Rivera’s guidance, or young players seizing opportunities to provide hope for the next season. Despite starting the season with back-to-back wins, Washington has only secured two victories since. The season has been marked by change, and while it may not be easy or aesthetically pleasing, it represents a crucial step in transforming the organization from a laughing stock to a formidable football team.
