The Washington Commanders are now working things out, examining the wreckage of a nightmare season. Fans demand action, and several notable changes to key positions on the depth chart and the coaching staff are expected in the near future.
Kliff Kingsbury's future is looking increasingly murky. The offensive coordinator is expected to generate interest in a head coaching job despite the team's failures in 2025. However, a bombshell report from Dianna Russini of The Athletic revealed that the Commanders could be planning to move on from the play-caller even if he doesn't get a top job somewhere else.
Russini pointed to a supposed disconnect between Kingsbury and general manager Adam Peters as something that could lead to his departure from the franchise. There is some merit to that, but nothing has been confirmed either way. Fans are divided on whether the former Arizona Cardinals head coach should stay or go, but pinning all of Washington's woes on his shoulders would be extremely foolish.
Commanders could turn to an in-house option if Kliff Kingsbury departs
Kingsbury has never had a full deck to play with, even during the offseason. His frustrations with Terry McLaurin's contract standoff weren't well hidden, and the injuries decimated any chance Washington had of reaching similar heights this time around.
If the Commanders do move on from Kingsbury, which would be a high-risk move, they'd better have a good contingency plan in place. And there is one possible in-house candidate who could have a leg up on replacing him in this scenario.
Brian Johnson has spent the last two seasons in Washington as assistant head coach and offensive pass game coordinator. He also has previous offensive coordinator experience with the Philadelphia Eagles, but things didn't go quite according to plan.
There is already a developed relationship with quarterback Jayden Daniels. Therefore, the transition would be smooth. And with defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. on his way out, keeping some semblance of continuity is crucial.
It's just one option, but it would be considered if Kingsbury is either let go or gets a head coaching position. Johnson could step in immediately, which is a positive. At the same time, he'd need to make significant improvements to his strategy given the lack of consistency in Philadelphia.
Sometimes, giving people the benefit of the doubt is preferred. Kingsbury deserves that, especially given the mitigating circumstances. However, if this reported rift with Peters is genuine, it represents a much more complex issue.
Johnson wouldn't turn the opportunity down if offered. This would also be a significant leap of faith from Quinn, with severe ramifications attached if it goes wrong.
Watch this space on several fronts...