The Washington Commanders have sent shockwaves through the NFL with their latest roster move, signing former Dallas Cowboys defensive lineman Carl Davis to bolster their defensive front. The announcement, made on Tuesday, marks a strategic addition to head coach Dan Quinn’s squad as they aim to fortify their defense for the 2025 season.
A Familiar Face for Dan Quinn
Carl Davis, a 33-year-old veteran defensive tackle, is no stranger to Dan Quinn. The two worked together during Quinn’s tenure as the defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, where Davis spent time on the practice squad in 2023 and 2024. Quinn, now at the helm of the Commanders, clearly sees untapped potential in the 6-foot-5, 320-pound lineman, whose size and experience could add depth to Washington’s defensive line.
Davis was originally a third-round pick by the Baltimore Ravens in the 2015 NFL Draft. Since then, he has had a journeyman career, appearing in 66 games across multiple teams, including the Ravens, Indianapolis Colts, Cleveland Browns, Jacksonville Jaguars, New England Patriots, and most recently, the Cowboys. His career stats include 67 total tackles, four sacks, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery, showcasing his ability to contribute as a rotational player.
Why This Move Matters
The signing comes as a surprise to many in the NFL, given Davis’s limited role in recent seasons. However, Dan Quinn’s familiarity with Davis suggests the Commanders’ head coach has a specific plan in mind. Quinn, known for his defensive acumen, likely values Davis’s versatility and physical presence in the trenches. With star defensive tackle Jonathan Allen already anchoring the line, Davis could serve as a valuable depth piece, providing relief and flexibility in Quinn’s defensive schemes.
This move also underscores Quinn’s strategy of building a robust and physical defense, a hallmark of his coaching philosophy. By reuniting with a player he knows well, Quinn may be banking on Davis’s ability to adapt quickly to his system and contribute immediately, especially as the Commanders look to make a playoff push.
What’s Next for the Commanders?
The addition of Carl Davis raises questions about the Commanders’ plans for their defensive front. Will Davis compete for a starting role, or is he being brought in as a veteran presence to mentor younger players? With Quinn’s track record of maximizing defensive talent, fans and analysts alike are eager to see how this signing plays out.
As the NFL world reacts to this unexpected move, all eyes are on Dan Quinn and the Commanders. What does the veteran coach know about Carl Davis that others might have overlooked? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain: Washington’s defense just got a little more intriguing.