Reports: Commanders to tab Daronte Jones as DC

Field Level Media|published: Tue 27th January, 08:22 2026

Jan 13, 2025; Glendale, AZ, USA; Minnesota Vikings defensive backs coach Daronte Jones against the Los Angeles Rams during an NFC wild card game at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Washington Commanders will hire Daronte Jones of the Minnesota Vikings as their next defensive coordinator, multiple media outlets reported.

Jones, 47, would take the place of Joe Whitt, who was fired on Jan. 6 after two seasons with the Commanders.

Jones initially joined Minnesota as a defensive backs coach in 2020 before spending one season with LSU as its defensive coordinator. He then rejoined the Vikings' coaching staff in 2022 and later added passing game coordinator to his duties.

Under Whitt, the Commanders finished last in the NFL in total defense (384.3 yards per game) and 28th against the pass (242.5).

Washington, which finished 5-12 this past season, was 27th in the league in average points allowed (26.5 per game) and gave up 451 total points, 60 more than in 2024, when the team went 12-5 during the regular season and advanced to the NFC title game.

--Field Level Media

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