Total Pro Sports
Dan Quinn didn’t just deliver a typical commencement speech. He delivered a moment that Salisbury University’s Class of 2025 won’t forget anytime soon.
The Washington Commanders head coach returned to his alma mater on Thursday, stood before a sea of graduates, and wrapped up his address with five words that perfectly captured his personality and coaching philosophy.
“Let it f—ing rip,” Quinn declared, bringing the ceremony to an electrifying close.
Dan Quinn's message to Salisbury University's graduates 😂😂😂 pic.twitter.com/OMCgTpPWk0
— Nicki Jhabvala (@NickiJhabvala) May 22, 2025
The phrase wasn’t just for show- it’s been his go-to line for years, from Seattle to Atlanta, and now, Washington. And if 2024 was any indication, the Commanders have bought into it completely.
Quinn’s message to the students echoed the same mindset he brought to the Commanders last season. Hired in early 2024 to lead a struggling franchise into a new era, he immediately made his vision clear. “We’re going to absolutely go for it in every single way,” he told reporters after taking the job. And that’s exactly what Washington did.
With rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels under center, the Commanders finished the regular season 12-5, their best mark in over a decade. The team surged into the playoffs and reached the NFC Championship Game for the first time since 1991, falling to the Philadelphia Eagles but not before reestablishing themselves as a force in the league.
Daniels, the No. 2 overall pick, earned Offensive Rookie of the Year honors and looks primed for an even bigger leap in 2025. His rise, paired with Quinn’s aggressive approach, has put Washington back in the Super Bowl conversation.
For Quinn, the success only adds weight to the advice he gave to the Salisbury grads. The longtime NFL coach has carved out a reputation built on intensity, accountability and belief in the people around him. His coaching résumé includes a Super Bowl win as defensive coordinator of the Seahawks, a Super Bowl appearance with the Falcons, and now, a resurgent Commanders squad with a real shot to contend.
Salisbury honored Dan Quinn with an honorary degree during the ceremony, and he made sure to leave the students with more than just a feel-good message. He left them with a challenge, and a little grit.
Also Read: Astonishing New Rendering Of Washington Commanders’ RFK Stadium Have Leaked Online
