“This is such an awesome moment,” is how Commanders head coach Dan Quinn launched his introductory press conference Monday.
No doubt the word “awesome” is used entirely too often by so many who are so easily entertained by the most simplistic music or silly video.
However, for Quinn, he had a 28-3 lead in a Super Bowl and lost it. It must have been excruciating to close the 2016 season losing in overtime to the Patriots. Quinn did lead the Falcons back to the playoffs, including winning a first-round game the next season.
Two 7-9 seasons (2018-19) followed, and when 2020 started horribly (0-5), he was fired. He landed in Dallas in 2021, serving as defensive coordinator for the last three seasons.
But Quinn had a longing, which he summarized this way Monday: “Over the past few years, there are five words that have probably tested my feet and head: ‘If I get another shot.'”
Quinn talked of how he had studied and learned in coaching, but there were also other lessons he realized that “you just have to live.” He said these are lessons that come not only through success but also adversity. “But once you learn those lessons, all you want to do is grab them and run and prove it. So let me tell you, I am ready to run and prove it, run like hell.”
Thing I find most impressive about Dan Quinn:
His willingness to look at himself for problems.
After the Super Bowl loss he sought out others across sports that had lost in big moments to gain perspective, brought in outside analysts to evaluate HIM.That is a leader.
I'm IN. pic.twitter.com/zMeEH99diz— John Tayman (@BangRadioHour) February 5, 2024
“I’m a little older, maybe a little more chrome (pointing to his graying beard), hopefully a little bit wiser,” Quinn said. “But I am also incredibly grateful for all that has led me to being here.”
Indeed Quinn is not spoiled. He didn’t have the opportunity to play at an Ohio State or Alabama. He instead played at Salisbury and had to start coaching at William & Mary, VMI and Hofstra.
Quinn talked about building trust and earning the trust of others. There was no hint of entitlement. His experiences have molded him and shaped him. He is indeed grateful to be chosen as Washington’s new head coach.
Quinn has been given another shot, and now he gets to run with it.
Living through his struggles and adversity, he wouldn’t have it any other way.
Therefore, Monday for Dan Quinn was indeed “awesome.”