Even though the Washington Commanders won just five games and didn't make the playoffs, the Philadelphia Eagles played only one more week before being bounced by the San Francisco 49ers. That provided some solace amid the misery, but it may have pushed the franchise toward a nightmare scenario.
Like the Commanders, something felt off about the Eagles all season. The defense didn't pack the same punch. The offensive scheme was bland, predictable, and everything in between. Rumors of friction between head coach Nick Sirianni, quarterback Jalen Hurts, and wide receiver A.J. Brown were rife. Running back Saquon Barkley never came close to reaching the incredible heights of 2024.
Naturally, there would be collateral damage. The Eagles fired offensive coordinator Kevin Patullo, although Sirianni didn't rule out keeping him on the staff. This was expected, bringing a jubilant response from the fan base. And for the Commanders, NFL insider Josina Anderson set the table for a scenario that head coach Dan Quinn could do without.
Kliff Kingsbury could be facing the Commanders twice a season if he doesn't become a head coach again
Anderson reported that Kingsbury will be a strong candidate to replace Patullo if he doesn't land a head-coaching job this cycle. Kevin Stefanski was another name touted, although the chances of him getting a top job immediately appear much stronger than Washington's former play-caller.
"A league source said Kliff Kingsbury (a runner-up when the team hired Kellen Moore) & Kevin Stefanski will "get a real look" for the #Eagles offensive coordinator position--among other options--assuming head coach signings don't supersede the team's vacancy."Josina Anderson
Kingsbury and Quinn had different opinions on how best to take the franchise forward offensively, and the coordinator was let go. He's already spoken to the Baltimore Ravens about their head-coaching vacancy, and the Las Vegas Raiders have also submitted a request to his representatives. And if he doesn't get those jobs, he'll likely be a play-caller again somewhere in 2026.
The Eagles are big fans of Kingsbury; that much is obvious. He was close to getting the offensive coordinator gig before it eventually went to Kellen Moore. Philadelphia has also seen and studied his scheme first-hand twice a year for the last two seasons when he held a post in Washington.
The Commanders and Kingsbury reportedly parted on good terms. However, that will not stop him from taking the Eagles' job if they make a legitimate offer. And this would potentially give Philadelphia the inside track on how best to stop Quinn's squad again next season.
It's a fluid situation with several twists and turns to come. But every Commanders fan should be hoping Kingsbury doesn't remain in the NFC East.