Magic Johnson swopping in at the 11th hour to get Kliff Kingsbury to the Washington Commanders was a mutually beneficial masterstroke. Just how long this partnership lasts is another matter.
Kingsbury is building back his reputation after being fired as Arizona Cardinals head coach. He spent a year in college at USC before becoming Washington's offensive coordinator. His influence on rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels and the team's efficiency on offense overall played a leading role in the team's remarkable renaissance under head coach Dan Quinn.
This is causing speculation about whether another top job awaits Kingsbury shortly. He'll be one of the hottest names in the upcoming head coaching cycle. That would be a blow for the Commanders, but it's a realistic possibility if Washington's offense finishes the season strongly.
It seems as if one team is already making their feelings known about Kingsbury being a potential candidate. And it just so happens to be the fierce division rival Washington squares off against this weekend.
The Dallas Cowboys could be in the market for a new head coach in 2025. Mike McCarthy's contract is expiring and with the team in freefall, owner/general manager Jerry Jones won't get a better opportunity to start fresh without having to pay the outgoing guy any additional compensation.
Jerry Jones prased Commanders OC Kliff Kingsbury before Week 12
Jones made no secret about his admiration for Kingsbury during another radio appearance this week. The billionaire highlighted his work with young quarterbacks and innovative offensive ideas before revealing they've built a friendship over the years.
"If you don’t play him regularly, he’s a tough draw because he’s going to come out there with some stuff that’s a little unconventional. He was ideal in working with a young QB. That was a very, very good move for Dan [Quinn] to get Kliff [Kingsbury]."Jerry Jones via X
Jerry Jones on Kliff Kingsberry: "I think a lot of Cliff. He's a friend. I really think a lot of him." Jones praised Kingsberry's work with young QBs and how innovative he is as a play caller.
— Calvin Watkins (@calvinwatkins) November 21, 2024
This inevitably came with people trying to read between the lines. The Cowboys might need a new head coach. Targeting Kingsbury would strengthen their chances of growth while also weakening an NFC East adversary. Given the way Jones thinks, that's something he'll take into consideration before devising his shortlist if McCarthy is deemed surplus to requirements.
Kingsbury would consider any offer. He might decide that the best route forward career-wise is to stay with the Commanders for another season and take it from there. It's hard to predict which way this goes, in all honesty.
Regardless, the Commanders must have a contingency plan in place if Kingsbury - or any other coach for that matter - departs for a promotion elsewhere. They cannot afford to be on the back foot. They must come up with alternatives when - or if - coaches leave for pastures new.
Quinn is experienced enough to roll with the punches. He's got outstanding contacts around the league and this is an exciting project to be part of. Everyone will stay together in an ideal world. Unfortunately, the NFL doesn't work like that.
Jones might be planting the seeds for a daring raid where Kingsbury is concerned. For all Dallas' faults, and there are many, it's still the most talked about and valuable team in the league. Most coaches would jump at the chance to be their head coach despite the owner's fumbling of team affairs in recent months.
Watch this space…