The Washington Commanders are making major waves as they gear up for the 2026 season, following a tough 5-12 run in 2025. The team decided it was time for a fresh start, shaking up the coaching staff in a big way. Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. were shown the door, paving the way for David Blough to step up as the new offensive coordinator, while former Minnesota Vikings defensive coach Daronte Jones takes over the defense.
Head coach Dan Quinn didn't shy away from discussing these bold moves on the Rich Eisen Show. He emphasized that the Commanders are driven by a clear vision for both the present and the future.
"Sometimes you have to adjust and make changes, even when it’s tough," Quinn explained. It's all about aligning with their game plan for 2025 and beyond.
Back in Quinn’s first year at the helm in 2024, Washington surprised everyone with a stellar 12-5 record. But the following year was a different story, prompting a quick overhaul.
Despite boasting a top-tier rushing attack, Kingsbury’s passing game lagged at 24th in yardage, pulling the overall offense down to 22nd in both points and yards. This was a sharp decline from their top-10 offensive showing the previous year, not helped by rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels missing a chunk of the season with only seven appearances.
On the defensive side, things went from bad to worse. Washington found themselves at the bottom of the league in yards allowed and 27th in points given up.
This led to Quinn relieving Whitt of his play-calling duties after just 10 games. Now, with Blough and Jones stepping into their new roles, the Commanders are looking to turn the page and build a team that can compete at the highest level.