Washington Redskins Hire Jay Gruden
By Matthew Laux
In a topsy turvy coaching search, the Washington Redskins appeared lost in the mix of possible head coaches. After requesting interviews with numerous candidates, the Redskins seemed to lack a specific direction, and many fans anticipated a long journey before finding their head coach. Washington and owner Daniel Snyder, however, found the right man in an interview on Thursday.
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At 4 P.M. today, the Redskins will introduce Jay, not Jon, Gruden as the newest Redskins coach to don the Burgundy and Gold. The younger of the Gruden brothers has a plethora of experience on the sideline and has the winning bloodlines Snyder had hoped for.
Entering the search, Gruden was secretly Snyder’s favorite due to his ties with general manager Bruce Allen among others within the organization. The former Bengals offensive coordinator had the proper pedigree after developing Andy Dalton into a playoff quarterback and building Cincinnati into the 12th best offense. Gruden will be the Redskins 6th coach during Snyder’s 15-year tenure, and none has lasted more than four years.
Now, Washington will move onto filling out the rest of their coaching staff, and their first move was to promote former TE’s coach Sean McVay to offensive coordinator. McVay developed a contingent of weapons at the tight end position during his time in Washington.
His first project began with fourth round pick Chris Cooley, and he most recently established Jordan Reed as the team’s second leading receiver. McVay was rewarded for his efforts and seen as the proper fit along side Gruden.
The Redskins, however, must take their time implementing the correct coach for their defensive coordinator vacancy. Currently, secondary coach Raheem Morris is seen as the early favorite and is expected to be brought on board as defensive coordinator.
Jay Gruden is the correct choice as head coach. The most important aspect of this quick decision is that Snyder will give Gruden ample time to prepare for a busy off-season. Washington will have plenty of money to work with, and must make the proper additions in order to build a playoff contender.
Before he moves on to free agency, Gruden must cement himself as the head coach of this franchise. Gruden must step in right away and prove to his players he will be able to lead Washington to the promise land. The Redskins needed to find a coach who could properly complement RG3, and I believe they did so with Jay Gruden. Good Luck and Go ‘Skins!