Jack Del Rio is confident he will return next season as the Washington Football Team defensive coordinator.
When asked if he is “hopeful” he will be back in 2022 in Washington, Del Rio laughed.
“I don’t even know what you’re talking about,” Del Rio said per Sam Fortier of the Washington Post. “I’m not hopeful. [I] will be.”
Washington’s defense was under fire at the start of the season, as the team stumbled to a 2-6 record. Communication breakdowns and a struggling pass rush resulted in Washington having one of the worst defenses in the league.
However, Del Rio made adjustments. Landon Collins was moved to a hybrid safety/linebacker role. That allowed safeties Kamren Curl and Bobby McCain the opportunity to play together on the back end.
Washington went on a four-game win streak as the defense improved. Even a season-ending torn ACL to defensive end Chase Young didn’t halt their momentum.
As of late Washington is on their second four-game losing streak of the season. The defense has played respectable minus a 56-14 embarrassment in Week 16 to Dallas. But, a COVID-19 outbreak and injuries to Collins and cornerback William Jackson has been too much for Washington to bear to close the season.
Despite a 6-10 record and the defense being ranked 27th in yards allowed, 30th against the pass and 28th in points allowed, Del Rio’s job appears to be safe heading into 2022.
