Greg Manusky is expected to return as the Redskins’ defensive coordinator — despite the team talking to three other coaches who possibly could have taken over the job, according to a report.
The Redskins have spent the last few weeks mulling possible changes to their coaching staff. Coach Jay Gruden was told that he would return for his sixth season, but a source close to the situation said the team was exploring its options in regards to the rest of the staff.
Manusky’s status came under question after the Redskins’ defense collapsed in the last half of the season. Washington lost six of its last seven games and in that stretch, the defense fell off dramatically. In one case, D.J. Swearinger publicly blasted Manusky’s play-calling, leading to the safety’s release.
The Redskins’ defense finished 17th in yards allowed per game.
Since the season ended, the Redskins have reportedly had discussions with Todd Bowles, Steve Wilks and Gregg Williams — all defensive-minded coaches who were once considered top defensive coordinators.
It is not clear if the talks involved replacing Manusky, but all three became the defensive coordinator of other teams. Bowles joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Wilks went to the Cleveland Browns and Williams agreed to join the New York Jets.
Despite the discussions, Manusky, who has been the Redskins’ defensive coordinator since 2017, remained under contract the entire time.
The Washington Post was the first to report of Manusky’s return.
So far, the Redskins have only one coaching vacancy as former special teams coordinator Ben Kotwica left to join the Atlanta Falcons for the same position. Outside linebackers coach Kirk Olivadotti was reportedly granted permission to interview for the head coaching job with the Green Bay Packers, who hired former Redskins assistant Matt LaFleur.
