Jim Haslett is no longer part of Jay Gruden's coaching staff in Washington.
The team announced a mutual parting of the ways between Gruden and Haslett, who has been the team's defensive coordinator since 2010.
"Jim and I have had discussions over the last few days and have decided that it's best for everyone that we have a new defensive coordinator for the Washington Redskins," Gruden said in a statement released by the team. "I wish him nothing but the best in the future."
Added Haslett: "Jay and I mutually agreed it's time for the Redskins to have a new defensive coordinator. I want to thank Dan Snyder, Bruce Allen, Coach Gruden and all the players and fellow coaches for their efforts the last five years and I wish them nothing but the best."
In four seasons, Haslett's unit never managed to finish higher than 14th in the very telling defensive efficiency ratings done by our friends at Football Outsiders. Despite the procurement and drafting of various stars, especially in the front seven, Washington only cracked the top 15 in total yards surrendered once.
It was hard to imagine Gruden getting through this offseason without making at least one minor staff change, especially after another last place finish with several stars on the roster.
As general manager Bruce Allen noted on Wednesday during a rare session with reporters, Washington needs to re-evaluate everything from the top down, including the way they seek out and coach players. He noted that the evaluation process will yield changes beyond just one coordinator move, including some potential moves in the front office.
"Jay and Jim had been talking the last few days and this morning they decided it was best for both sides. I appreciate coach Haslett's work and what he's done, but I think it was the right move," Allen said.
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