Is Brian Flores using the Commanders?

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Jan 15, 2026 - 16:00
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Is Brian Flores using the Commanders?

Brian Flores interviewed for the Washington Commanders' defensive coordinator job, but two radio hosts are not buying it.

Yes, the Vikings' defensive coordinator does not have a contract for next season, so yes, he did interview for the Commanders' job, but Chris Russell and Grant Paulsen seriously doubt he is coming to Washington.

Russell (The Team 980 host, 1-4 PM) was a guest with "Grant and Danny" on 106.7 the Fan in Washington, D.C. on Wednesday. Paulsen inquired directly:

"Why in the heck would Brian Flores take this job as the defensive coordinator? There are ten other openings."

"Well, first of all, I don't think he is going to take it," responded Russell. "I think he is going to get a head coaching job, and it might very well be in Pittsburgh because he was there just a couple of years ago as an assistant and they know what kind of personality (he is) and it sometimes can be explosive and difficult to deal with. But I was surprised to find out that he was actually here for an interview in Washington today."

News broke Wednesday that the Steelers have an interest in Flores as well. Russell went as far to say, he seriously doesn't see Flores taking the Commanders DC position.

"I think this is, 'Hey, my contract's up, I need as much leverage as I can. If I create enough leverage, I get the money I want from the Vikings. I get the money I want from the Dallas Cowboys...I am going to try to use every bit of leverage that I can, while obviously hoping I get one of these head coaching jobs, which I (Russell) think ultimately he will get despite all of his various issues."

Russell appeared to be alluding to Flores's time coaching at Miami. There was a report that Flores screamed at QB Tua Tagovailoa. Some anonymously expressed that Flores was abrasive, hard to read, played mind games, and created a toxic culture. His supporters disagree, stating that he is tough, but they say it is a negative characterization to say he is "tough to work with."

Culture is very important to Dan Quinn, so no doubt Quinn and Flores discussed some of the reports and what type of culture Quinn is building with the Commanders.

Flores is one of several names that have spoken to the Commanders, or plan to, regarding their defensive coordinator opening.

This article originally appeared on Commanders Wire: Washington Commanders: Brian Flores' leverage play

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