Why Is Commanders’ Dan Quinn Losing Sleep This Week?
Dan Quinn, the newly appointed head coach of the Washington Commanders, is facing what might be one of the most pivotal weeks of his coaching career — and it’s keeping him up at night.
As the 2025 NFL Draft rapidly approaches, Quinn finds himself under an immense amount of pressure. Taking over a franchise in transition, he not only has to rebuild a struggling roster but also reshape a culture that’s been in flux for years. With the Commanders holding one of the top picks in this year’s draft, every decision he makes could define the trajectory of both the team and his tenure in Washington.
Sources close to the organization say Quinn has been pulling long hours at the Commanders’ facility in Ashburn, VA — reviewing film, attending late-night scouting meetings, and working closely with GM Adam Peters to finalize the draft board. While he’s no stranger to the grind, this week’s stakes are significantly higher. “This isn’t just about picking a good player,” one insider shared. “It’s about finding the face of the franchise — the guy Dan’s going to build around for years.”
The quarterback question looms especially large. With teams like the Patriots, Bears, and Raiders also eyeing top QB talent, the pressure is on Quinn and his staff to get it right. Names like Drake Maye, J.J. McCarthy, and Jayden Daniels have been heavily linked to the Commanders, but the team has remained tight-lipped about their intentions. That silence only adds to the tension.
But it’s not just the draft that’s weighing on Quinn’s mind. He’s also working to install a new culture, new systems, and build relationships with players he inherited — all while trying to win over a fanbase desperate for change. As a defensive-minded coach, he’s also trying to ensure that his philosophy is felt across the roster. “Dan wants toughness, discipline, and accountability,” one player noted. “That starts now — not in training camp.”
Behind the scenes, Quinn’s commitment is already being felt. He’s been highly visible during offseason workouts, personally checking in with players, and holding individual meetings to get a better grasp on team dynamics. But all of that takes time and energy — and it’s no surprise he’s losing sleep while trying to juggle it all.
NFL insiders say this kind of round-the-clock intensity is classic Dan Quinn. During his time in Atlanta and Dallas, he was known for his relentless work ethic and meticulous preparation. But in Washington, the stakes feel different — more personal. After the highs of a Super Bowl run and the lows of being fired, Quinn is now in a position to write the next chapter of his coaching story.
With so much riding on this week’s decisions — from draft night drama to roster reshaping — it’s no wonder Dan Quinn’s burning the midnight oil. For the Commanders, this isn’t just another offseason. It’s the beginning of something new. And Quinn knows better than anyone that getting it right means everything.
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