As the Washington Commanders prepare to face the Dallas Cowboys in a high-profile Christmas Day matchup, the spotlight isn't just on the field-it’s also on the future of their coaching staff, particularly offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury. While the team continues to navigate quarterback injuries and an uneven season, Kingsbury’s name is already surfacing in conversations about potential head coaching opportunities around the league.
Kingsbury, who previously held the top job with the Arizona Cardinals, was recently asked whether he’s eyeing a return to the head coaching ranks. His response?
Measured and noncommittal. “We’ll see how that plays out,” he said, while emphasizing that his current focus is on preparing one of Washington’s quarterbacks to play on a short week.
It’s the kind of answer that doesn’t close any doors-and certainly doesn’t quiet the speculation.
And there’s reason for the buzz. Despite the Commanders’ struggles this season, Kingsbury has shown flashes of what made him a coveted offensive mind in the first place.
With Marcus Mariota sidelined, rookie Jayden Daniels has stepped in under center, and Kingsbury has done a solid job steering the offense through turbulent waters. It’s not always been pretty, but given the circumstances-injuries, a young quarterback, and a team in transition-there’s enough there to catch the eye of front offices looking for a fresh start.
According to reporting around the league, Kingsbury’s name is expected to be “in the mix” for head coaching roles this offseason. The thinking is that teams won’t judge him solely on the Commanders’ record this year.
Instead, they’ll likely evaluate the full scope of his work-his time in Arizona, his offensive creativity, and how he’s handled a tough situation in Washington. That broader view could make him an appealing candidate for franchises looking to rebuild or retool.
And don’t expect Kingsbury to jump at just any opportunity. Those close to the situation suggest he’ll be selective, much like he was last offseason. Despite the Commanders’ record, there are still pieces in place that might make staying in Washington appealing: a promising young quarterback, a solid offensive line, and a front office and staff he reportedly respects.
So while nothing’s set in stone, the next few weeks could be telling. With head coaching vacancies on the horizon and Kingsbury’s stock quietly on the rise, Washington may find itself not only searching for answers at quarterback-but also potentially preparing for another change on the sideline.