The Minnesota Vikings were always confident about retaining defensive coordinator Brian Flores despite a daring offseason bid from the Washington Commanders. They could do absolutely nothing about his right-hand man landing on Dan Quinn's staff.
And even though it's early days, Daronte Jones has already brought a little bit of Flores' flavor to the Commanders' defensive unit.
The Commanders were blown away by Jones' vision for their offense. He became a trusted ally for Flores, helping Minnesota's defense become one of the league's most creative and aggressive. That was enough to earn a promotion, and it hasn't taken the up-and-coming coach long to make a notable impression in Washington.
Former Minnesota Vikings assistant Daronte Jones is already drawing inspiration from Brian Flores with the Washington Commanders
Reports over the summer were glowing. Jones made his intentions clear, and the players responded positively. The Commanders also improved their personnel as part of a youth movement, giving the first-time NFL play-caller more youth, athleticism, and speed to utilize within his 3-4 base scheme.
Jones hasn't shown much; nobody does in the preseason. But there is real optimism around what this group could accomplish if they get a better run of luck on the injury front.
And if Jones does thrive with the Commanders, he'll have Flores to thank.
The creative blitz packages, simulated pressures, and disguised coverages to attack opposing offenses from all angles are a core component of Flores' defense. Jones saw that firsthand and wants the same for his new squad in Washington. And imitation is always the sincerest form of flattery.
It's not hard to see why Flores and Jones hit it off.
Both are no-nonsense, with high demands of themselves and everyone they work with. They have a natural aura that players respond to, and as one of Flores' disciples, there will be nobody happier to see Jones go on to great things elsewhere.
The Commanders have taken a big risk with Jones. Quinn is under pressure to turn things around after a five-win campaign. Trusting his defense to a first-year NFL coordinator is a gamble, but it'll be a masterstroke if Jones' system has the desired effect.
Time will tell on that, but Jones has made the best possible impression before the real action begins.
The Vikings will get to see Jones' vision for themselves when they host the Commanders in Week 16. It will feel like a student-master matchup when he locks horns with Flores. And once some pleasantries are exchanged beforehand, it'll be all business when the whistle blows.
There is a lot of football to go before then, but don't be surprised if Jones makes this unit much more competitive after things went completely off the rails last season.
Replicating Flores' accomplishments is not easy. But after an eye-catching summer in his new role, Jones could have a better shot than most.
Add us as a preferred source on Google