Removing offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury from the equation may have been shocking to some. But when his vision for the offense no longer matched what head coach Dan Quinn was looking for, it became inevitable.
The Washington Commanders are taking a big risk by promoting rookie play-caller David Blough to the job. He was drawing strong interest from the Detroit Lions for their vacant offensive coordinator position, which would have been a hard proposition to turn down. Quinn took decisive action, believing he had gotten ahead of the game with a high-rising asset with the potential to become a future head coach.
Things are looking up. But that hasn't stopped some from scrutinizing the move months after, hinting that Quinn should have been the one under pressure.
Commanders had to move forward without Kliff Kingsbury, even if some still don't like it
ESPN analyst Seth Walder highlighted the Commanders' decision to part ways with Kingsbury as the one he disliked most over the offseason. He thought the defensive inefficiency had a much bigger say in Washington's failings. He also believes that Quinn should have carried the can, not his play-caller.
"Although the Commanders massively disappointed by going 5-12 in 2025, the defense was the biggest culprit, ranking 30th in EPA per play. If anyone should have been on the hot seat after 2025, I think it should have been head coach Dan Quinn, not (Kliff) Kingsbury."
While it's a valid take, to a certain extent, it completely misses the point.
Coordinators get canned first. It's a tale as old as time around the NFL. Scapegoats are always made, and Quinn decided on a fresh start on both sides of the football.
You can talk about EPA or even the injuries, but Kingsbury's offense no longer passed the eye test. His system is renowned for getting figured out quickly, and the Commanders opted to cut the cord now rather than prolong any agony.
Blough may fall flat, but Quinn had to do something.
The Commanders are implementing more pro-style concepts to maximize quarterback Jayden Daniels' obvious gifts. They wanted more balance and more emphasis on explosive plays to open things up underneath. Blough might be inexperienced, but he comes highly regarded. And he's already got a strong reputation in league circles as a leader, mentor, and play designer.
As for Kingsbury? The NFL spoke for him.
He got one head-coaching interview from the Baltimore Ravens. There was no interest for the numerous offensive coordinator vacancies around the league. Kingsbury eventually settled on a job working under Sean McVay on the Los Angeles Rams, which could be the best spot to galvanize his career.
If the Commanders' downward spiral continues next season, Quinn will be the next to go. But at least he would be leaving with no regrets whatsoever.
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