Dan Quinn Is Building a Wall to Stop Saquon and the Eagles

Washington, D.C. – June 16, 2025

When the Washington Commanders ranked dead last in run defense last season, it was more than a statistical embarrassment — it was an NFC East death sentence. Opponents shredded their front seven with ease, and no team exploited it more viciously than the Philadelphia Eagles, led by Saquon Barkley’s record-breaking season. But that may soon change.

With Super Bowl-winning defensive mind Dan Quinn now in charge, the Commanders are undergoing a total identity shift. His mission? Make sure Saquon never sees daylight again.

"We got humiliated in the trenches last year," Quinn admitted at minicamp. "That’s not happening again. Not on my watch."

The overhaul started with personnel. Washington added veteran linebacker Bobby Wagner, one of the most instinctive and productive run defenders in NFL history. Pairing him with a rejuvenated Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen up front forms a three-layer shield — one Quinn believes can contain even the most dynamic backs.

They’ve already turned heads. According to ESPN, the new front looks faster, more disciplined, and downright mean. There’s more chatter at the line, more gap responsibility, and more pride. Coaches say it’s the most energized defense Washington has shown in years.

The underlying message is clear: Washington is building to stop the Eagles, and Saquon Barkley is the bullseye. In 2024, Barkley torched them for over 200 total yards across two games. But now, the Commanders aren’t planning to get run over — they’re planning to hit back.

"You want to win this division, you stop Philly," said defensive tackle Allen. "And that means you stop 26."

Whether it works remains to be seen, but the Eagles — and their fans — have reason to pay attention. With Quinn leading a revitalized defense, Week 6 and Week 13 matchups against Washington might no longer be penciled in as easy wins. Barkley may still be the NFC’s most feared weapon — but the Commanders are building a wall, and they’re aiming it right at him.