The Reason Joe Barry Was Hired

   Joe Barry was named the new Redskins defensive coordinator. He comes over from coaching the San Diego Chargers last year, were he was in charge of the linebacker unit. Barry whose only other experience of a D coordinator was with the Lions...his unit ranked last in yards allowed and points allowed. It is imported to note he took over a team that had almost nothing and whose head coach focused on offensive personal. To place the blame squarely on the shoulders of a man who inherited a bad team would be unfair. Not to mention he was given no time to attempt to repair the team because he was fired after 1 year.

The Redskins had at least 7 know candidates to chose from. The notable ones Wade Phillips, Vic Fangio, Ed Donatell, Eric Mangini and Raheem Morris. Phillips the 68 year old ex Cowboys coach was considered the favorite but after meeting with him it was decided not to go with him. The reasons possibly a 68 year old may not coach for much longer seems to  be the main one. Raheem Morris apparently have not been very impressive in his interview sources say. Vic Fangio seemed to be a possibility but apparently was set to be the Chicago Bears coordinator from early on. Ed Donatell was thought to be in position  but failed to impressed...Fun fact he coached a win less Washington University team. 

So why was Eric Barry Hired over some very accomplished men? 
For 3 main reasons.

1.Tampa Connection: He was part of the Bruce Allan coaching staff. It makes sense for Bruce and Jay to chose someone they both are used to.

2. San Diego Adversity: Jay Gruden openly stated he was impressed by how Joe handled the Banged up Chargers linebackers core.. Adversity helps when you come to DC considering every week there is drama.

3. Not many other candidates: Yes, contradicts what it sounds above but in reality its true. Several of the Coordinators thought a 4-3 will be a good switch for the Redskins...that takes them out. You can't justify a Morris hiring when you question his ability to be a secondary coach. Some knew they wouldn't accept the job so flew out just to hear the Redskins case and possibly be lured away with a big money deal. Personally I don't thing a Redskins job opening is very fruitful especially the number of holes needed to be fixed on offence aka draft pick on offensive lines.