Kliff Kingsbury is expected to draw head coaching interest despite the Washington Commanders failing to meet lofty expectations this season. And it's starting to look like the offensive coordinator would welcome any approaches that come his way.
There are only two offensive coordinator vacancies right now. The Tennessee Titans and New York Giants are the teams that have a head start on identifying candidates of interest. But there will be more opportunities available once the 2025 campaign concludes.
Kingsbury refused to consider leaving Washington last offseason. He was happy in his current role, developing quarterback Jayden Daniels and learning a significant amount from head coach Dan Quinn. The Commanders were also in the midst of a deep postseason run, and he didn't want his focus to go anywhere else.
Kliff Kingsbury focused on Commanders' season finale, not the NFL head coach hiring cycle
That's not the case this time around. The Commanders have struggled, winning just four games. Injuries haven't helped their cause, but it's hard to look at this campaign without severe disappointment.
Despite the Commanders' lowly record, Jeremy Fowler of ESPN still expects Kingsbury to be an interesting name to watch in the upcoming hiring cycle. The play-caller was once again asked about the prospect during his final weekly media availability of the season. And as expected, he remained focused on the task at hand.
"Gonna cross that bridge when and if we get there. The focus right now is trying to beat Philly. Excited to work with Josh [Johnson] one more time."Kliff Kingsbury
Kliff Kingsbury on possibly looking at head coaching jobs: "Gonna cross that bridge when and if we get there. The focus right now is trying to beat Philly. Excited to work with Josh [Johnson] one more time..."
— John Keim (@john_keim) January 1, 2026
This is similar to how Kingsbury has discussed returning as a head coach in recent weeks. He's probably got no problem coming back to Washington in 2026. However, this could also be a good time to step away if the right opportunity arises.
Coaches on 4-12 teams don't typically receive head-coaching offers. However, there are mitigating circumstances attached that will give Kingsbury the benefit of the doubt.
He's rarely had Daniels available. Terry McLaurin and countless others have also missed time, so the excuses for the offensive regression are there for all to see if Kingsbury gets interviews.
Kingsbury's track record for developing young quarterbacks is impressive, dating back to his college days with Patrick Mahomes. Things ended sourly with the Arizona Cardinals during his first head coaching gig, but he can consider his reputation enhanced after two years in Washington.
The Commanders will have plans in place for any notable staff departures. Kingsbury potentially leaving won't be enforced, but it would be surprising if he didn't become more receptive to interview requests and potential offers this time around.
Time will tell, but Kingsbury is taking everything in his stride.