Head coach Dan Quinn opened his Monday press conference by highlighting the Washington Commanders’ all-around performance in their Week 3 win. Quinn emphasized that complementary football fueled the victory, noting how special teams, defense, and offense each played crucial roles. He praised Jeremy McNichols for his long touchdown run, Ben Sinnott for his blocking in the run game, and the defensive tackles Daron Payne and Javon Kinlaw for controlling the interior. Quinn also applauded Deebo Samuel Sr. and Jaylin Lane for their contributions on returns that set up scoring opportunities.
“You do not know who is going to pop off and make the big play,” Quinn said. “That is the fun part. Different players stepped up in different spaces, and that was a key factor in the game.”
Quinn credited the team’s balanced approach for sustaining drives and maintaining momentum. He singled out the run game for setting up explosive plays through play-action passing, adding that staying committed to the ground attack was critical against a tough Raiders defense.
Injury Updates and Roster Adjustments
Quinn confirmed that safety Will Harris broke his fibula and will move to the Reserve, Injured List. He called Harris “an excellent addition” whose speed and coverage skills have been vital in key matchups. To bolster the secondary, the Commanders signed free agent safety Darnell Savage. Quinn expressed confidence in his depth at the position with Tyler Owens, Jeremy Reaves, and Percy Butler but acknowledged Harris’s unique skill set would be missed.
“Adding Savage gives us another experienced playmaker,” Quinn said. “We are excited to have him here and see how he fits into the rotation moving forward.”
Quinn also updated reporters on quarterback Jayden Daniels, listing him as day-to-day and noting that the team would reassess his status later in the week. He praised backup Marcus Mariota’s performance against the Raiders but stressed that Daniels’ return would depend on medical evaluations, not short-term results. Additionally, Quinn noted that cornerback Marshon Lattimore cleared concussion protocol, giving Washington’s defense a boost.
Offensive Balance, Line Play, and Culture
Quinn expressed satisfaction with the offensive line’s progress, singling out Chris Paul for his strength and readiness to compete for a starting role. He explained that maintaining competition at guard ensures the line continues to develop chemistry and execute at a high level.
He praised rookie tackle Josh Conerly Jr. for showing growth against tough matchups early in the season. “It is cool to see him learn from last week and get better against top competition,” Quinn said. “That is how you build confidence.”
The head coach also credited Kliff Kingsbury’s offensive design for effectively using tight ends Sinnott and Colson Yankoff while John Bates was unavailable. He applauded Sinnott for playing aggressively and beating defenders to the punch in the run game.
To close the press conference, Quinn reflected on the culture within the locker room. He credited the players for their strong bonds and willingness to support one another, saying that the team’s unity drives its competitive edge. “These guys are connected,” Quinn said. “They play for each other, and that connection shows on the field.”
With another game on the horizon, Quinn’s focus on complementary football, roster depth, and culture suggests Washington is prepared to continue its winning streak and push for sustained success in 2025.