The Washington Commanders have fired defensive coordinator Jack Del Rio and defensive backs coach Brent Vieselmeyer.
The decisions came the day after another tough defensive outing in a 45-10 loss to the Dallas Cowboys. The Commanders have allowed 290 or more yards in 11 of their 12 games this season and 30 or more points seven times.
This most recent setback brought their record to 4-8 in their first campaign under new ownership. The Commanders have lost eight of their last 10 games after starting their season with two straight wins.
Head coach Ron Rivera could take charge of calling plays on defense, which would allow him to give even more latitude to new offensive coordinator Eric Bieniemy. Rivera’s future is also uncertain after this season, as owner Josh Harris’ group is expected to make sweeping changes within the organization.
Del Rio was in his fourth season with Washington, having been hired by Rivera in 2020. The two had never worked together before.