Cowboys News: Dan Quinn's farewell to fans, Mike Zimmer, Frank Gore Jr.
By Jerry Trotta
It's unfortunate that the Dallas Cowboys' wild card loss will be fans' lasting memory of Dan Quinn as defensive coordinator. It was a lowlight in an otherwise robust tenure calling the defense, but Quinn won't get the chance to redeem himself after he was hired as head coach of the Commanders on Thursday.
Quinn achieved great things with the Cowboys. He moved mountains with a defense that couldn't stop a nosebleed under his predecessor, Mike Nolan. The fact Quinn helped fans forget Nolan's reign of terror is a feat unto itself.
While some meat was left on the bone in terms of the D's potential, Quinn morphed the unit into a turnover-creating machine that always ranked near the top of the league in sacks. He restored his brand, but most importantly his confidence and "joy" following a tumultuous end to his tenure as Falcons head coach.
Hopefully, Cowboys fans look back fondly on Quinn's time as defensive coordinator. If so, the feeling is mutual, because Quinn has nothing but appreciation and gratitude for his three years with the organization.
Dan Quinn bides farewell to the Cowboys and their fans after leaving for Commanders HC job.
“After being out of coaching for a period, I was looking for somewhere to bring back my joy,’’ Quinn said, via The Dallas Morning News. “My time in Dallas did that and so much more. I’m so grateful for the opportunity I had, not just to coach with Mike McCarthy, but for a friendship — that may now be tested twice a year — but will always be valued.’’
“Jerry and the Jones family have built one of the greatest organizations in all of sports and yet have a way of making it feel like you’re simply part of a family. Thankful to have been a part of that family filled with some of the finest men I have ever coached, and coached with.
"Thank you, Cowboy Nation. I will always be grateful for my time in Dallas."
A class act through and through. We wish Quinn nothing but success in Washington until, of course, it's time to play the Cowboys.