David Blough becoming the new Washington Commanders' offensive coordinator is likely to bring significant changes. Not only from a schematic standpoint, but also on the playing personnel side of things.
The Commanders are taking a massive chance on Blough. Head coach Dan Quinn didn't believe Kliff Kingsbury's offense was capable of getting Washington where it wants to go. When the play-caller was unwilling to change his system, a parting of the ways was inevitable, and the fact that he won't be calling plays elsewhere in 2026 speaks volumes.
Blough should bring a pro-style scheme that is more creative and explosive. General manager Adam Peters must do his part by finding the right players capable of putting these grand plans into action, but the first-time coordinator wasted no time in revealing where he would like an upgrade.
David Blough wants upgrades in Commanders' running back room, which could be a problem for Chris Rodriguez Jr.
During his introductory press conference, Blough expressed confidence in seventh-round pick Jacory Croskey-Merritt, potentially as a starting-caliber option in his offense. However, he left no doubt that additions will come at some point this offseason to raise the stakes.
"Everyone saw the flashes that Bill had in his rookie season. It's really exciting to think about what he could look like in a second year behind this offensive line. We've only got one running back signed, so there will definitely be acquisitions that take place there. It depends exactly how the room looks, but incredibly confident about what Bill could be in this league as a starting running back."David Blough
It's what Blough didn't say that was arguably more telling. There was no mention of Chris Rodriguez Jr. during his assessment. The 2023 sixth-round selection flashed once again when called upon last season. And once again, he heads into the spring as an exclusive rights free agent.
If the Commanders want to keep him around, it's a relatively straightforward process for Peters. All Washington has to do is tender him an exclusive rights tender, which will prevent Rodriguez from speaking to other teams. That seems likely, but Blough's comments cast further doubt on the situation.
Rodriguez is a solid performer. He may not ever be a world-beater, but he can gain hard yards in between the tackles and is very difficult to stop once early momentum is generated. At the same time, the Commanders shouldn't settle, and Blough could want a more well-rounded option to put alongside Croskey-Merritt in the backfield.
This isn't the time for standing pat. Drastic action is needed. If Blough believes he can use a better running back, Rodriguez might not be around for much longer.
That would be harsh, but it's a cold business.