Commanders Request Ravens' Mike Macdonald for Coaching Interview

The Washington Commanders will look to interview Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald after firing Ron Rivera.

The Washington Commanders are making their calls to their shortlist of head coaching candidates.

According to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, the Commanders are requesting to interview Baltimore Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald.

Mike Macdonald is in his second season as the Ravens' defensive coordinator.  / Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

In a world where the top offensive minds are seemingly tabbed for every head coaching opening, Macdonald, 36, has asserted himself as one of the top candidates heading into the offseason. His name has become as hot as it has been after he led another defensive masterclass, as the Ravens' defense shut down the San Francisco 49ers and has five interceptions in a 33-19 win on Christmas at Levi Stadium. 

The 49ers averaged 34.5 points per game during their six-game winning streak heading into the Monday Night Football matchup on Christmas.

Washington Post reporter Nicki Jhabvala noted that owner Josh Harris could target Ravens Director of Player Personnel Joe Hortiz to become the Commanders' next general manager.

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Washington won't be the only team interested in Macdonald if it's looking for a new head coach after this season. But if Harris is committed to rebuilding the organization similarly to the Ravens and hires Hortiz as the general manager, that could be enough to sway Macdonald's decision if he's interested in becoming a head coach. 

And given Macdonald's success in Baltimore, Harris should be doing whatever it takes to land him as the Commanders' next head coach.