Smith has never served as a head coach at any level and inherits a roster still being overhauled by new general manager Thomas Dimitroff. But he may already have a franchise quarterback in Matt Ryan, who has looked extremely sharp during the preseason.

Initially hired as Washington's offensive coordinator, Zorn was promoted when the Redskins weren't satisfied with other potential replacements for the retiring Joe Gibbs. In retrospect, Redskins general manager Vinny Cerrato said Zorn initially should have been atop the head-coaching wish list.

"When he came out to interview, I didn't realize how detailed and organized he really was," Cerrato said. "He has a plan and idea for everything."