Commanders could hire Brad Idzik
The Washington Commanders have had two experienced men, Ron Rivera and Dan Quinn, as their recent head coaches. If their current head coach cannot do enough to secure another year with the club, they would be wise to look a little younger, for someone who could bring more innovation.
That is a gamble, of course. But whatever the Commanders have done so far just hasn't worked.
Brad Idzik is another drawing significant buzz in NFL circles. The Carolina Panthers offensive coordinator took over play-calling from head coach Dave Canales this season, and the impact is clear. His stock has also soared ahead of the 2027 head-coaching cycle.
Idzik's aggressive scheme has made Carolina an offensive surprise package. His work to take quarterback Bryce Young's game to new heights is another positive working in his favor, and even though there is still a long way to go, he'll be a worthwhile interview if the Commanders let Quinn go.
Commanders could hire Sean McDermott
The Commanders are looking to become a contender. That could mean general manager Adam Peters keeps looking for someone with head-coaching experience, especially since he won't get a third chance to select a new head coach if his second one falls flat.
That brings someone like Sean McDermott under the microscope.
The Buffalo Bills let McDermott go this offseason, wanting an offensive shift under Joe Brady. He opted not to take another job immediately, taking stock of growing trends around the league before reentering the mix in 2027.
There should be plenty of interest in McDermott's services. He achieved considerable success in Buffalo but didn't quite do enough to get over the hump. He's a defensive mind first, but with the right offensive coordinator, there is a lot to like about his credentials.
This would be similar to Mike Tomlin. But rumors are already swirling that McDermott would be high on Washington's shortlist if Quinn is removed.
Commanders could hire Klay Kubiak
NFL connections matter. So do coaching trees, and Klay Kubiak could be the next one off the Kyle Shanahan conveyor belt despite not calling plays for the San Francisco 49ers.
Kubiak is the son of Gary Kubiak and the younger brother of Klint Kubiak, who got the Las Vegas Raiders head-coaching gig this offseason. He's risen through the ranks in San Francisco, starting at defensive quality control before moving up to offensive coordinator.
The Shanahan connection means a lot to Washington, given former head coach Mike Shanahan started it all. Adam Peters also knows Kubiak well from their time together on the Niners, so it would be surprising if he didn't enter the frame.
While Kubiak doesn't call plays, he plays a big role in the team's week-to-week strategic planning. Learning from Shanahan will have served him well, and there's nothing to suggest he couldn't excel if given the reins somewhere else.
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