Press Enter to send · Shift+Enter for a new line
Defensive Coordinator · WAS

Daronte Jones

Daronte Jones

Washington Commanders Defensive Coordinator.

Quick Facts

Background

Former Minnesota Vikings defensive assistant who served as the team's defensive backs coach and pass game coordinator. Jones was the LSU Tigers defensive coordinator in 2021 and has coached defensive backs with multiple NFL teams including the Dolphins and Bengals.

Scheme and Tendencies

Jones comes from Brian Flores' aggressive system and brings that aggressive mentality to Washington under Dan Quinn. His core philosophy is attacking with discipline—he's scheme-agnostic and will make the offense adjust rather than letting the offense dictate flow. Expects aggressive pressure packages with disguised coverages and stunts. Blitzing rate will be high (~46.3% like Minnesota's). The base will be 3-4 with multiple fronts and nickel packages creating edge rusher and linebacker opportunities. He employs zone-heavy coverage with creative alignments that disguise intention. DBs will play multiple roles and blitz from secondary. Edge rushers drop into coverage periodically. The scheme is built on taking explosives away while orchestrating pressure through deception.

2026 Outlook

Jones will implement an aggressive, multiple-front defense with high blitz rates (~46%) and disguised pressure concepts from the Minnesota Vikings and Brian Flores' system. The defense expects to deploy Odafe Oweh on the edge as a primary pass rusher, with linebackers Leo Chenal and Frankie Luvu responsible for run stop and coverage. Chenal can align anywhere and will wear multiple hats. The secondary will play aggressively in press coverage with two-high safety structures; second-year corner Trey Amos and Nick Cross can provide DB1-level production in this scheme if he executes. The Commanders added key edge talent (Oweh, K'Lavon Chaisson) to support the scheme's pressure focus. This is a coverage-demanding system for linebackers and DBs, so look for depth issues in coverage if starters get hurt. (per NFC Coaching Changes: How the 5 New Defensive Coordinators Will Impact IDP Leagues for...)

Recent News