Just when it looked like Kliff Kingsbury might be on the outside looking in for the 2026 season, the former Washington Commanders offensive coordinator has landed on his feet - and in a spot that could quietly become one of the best fits of his career.
After parting ways with the Commanders following a meeting with new head coach Dan Quinn - a meeting that reportedly revealed a fundamental disconnect on the direction of the offense - Kingsbury's options looked slim. He interviewed for the Ravens’ head coaching job and spoke with the Titans about their offensive coordinator vacancy before Tennessee ultimately hired Brian Daboll. Aside from a conversation with the Giants, the phone wasn’t exactly ringing off the hook.
But now, Kingsbury is expected to join the Los Angeles Rams in a prominent role on Sean McVay’s offensive staff. The exact title hasn't been announced, but one thing is clear: Kingsbury won’t be calling plays - that remains McVay’s domain. Still, this move could be a pivotal one for both Kingsbury and the Rams.
Let’s break it down.
A Fresh Start Under McVay
For Kingsbury, this is more than just a job - it’s a golden opportunity to reset and evolve. After early success at the collegiate and pro levels, his offensive scheme had started to draw criticism for being too predictable. The Commanders’ offense under his watch struggled to find consistency, and his departure didn’t come as a major surprise.
But now, he steps into a system led by one of the most respected offensive minds in football. McVay has built a reputation on adaptability, creativity, and maximizing talent - and Kingsbury, for all the knocks on his recent play-calling, still brings a sharp football mind and a strong rapport with players. In the right environment, with less pressure and more room to learn, this could be the perfect lab for him to retool his approach.
The Rams’ Offensive Ecosystem
With Mike LaFleur leaving to become the Cardinals’ head coach, there’s a potential opening in the Rams’ offensive hierarchy. Nate Scheelhaase, currently the pass game coordinator, is a candidate for promotion to offensive coordinator. Even if that happens, Kingsbury’s addition signals that the Rams are looking to fortify their offensive brain trust with experience and fresh perspective.
Matthew Stafford is returning for another season, and the Rams’ offense was one of the most efficient in the league last year. Kingsbury won’t be asked to overhaul anything - instead, he’ll likely be tasked with contributing to game planning, quarterback development, and helping McVay and staff stay one step ahead in a loaded NFC.
And let’s not overlook the value of this move for Kingsbury personally. Working under McVay offers a chance to absorb from one of the NFL’s premier offensive architects. For a coach looking to recalibrate his career trajectory, that’s about as good a situation as you can ask for.
Meanwhile, in Washington…
The Commanders are turning the page with David Blough as their new offensive coordinator - a bold move, considering Blough has no prior NFL coaching or play-calling experience. It’s a gamble from Quinn, no doubt, but it also signals a willingness to think outside the box.
If Blough can translate his football IQ into results, the Commanders might just have a diamond in the rough. But it's a big "if."
Kingsbury, meanwhile, will be watching from across the country - and perhaps taking notes. His NFL journey has had its ups and downs, but this latest chapter in Los Angeles gives him a chance to evolve, contribute, and maybe even rebuild his stock for another shot down the line.
In a league that rarely hands out second chances without strings attached, Kingsbury may have just found the ideal place to rewrite his story - quietly, smartly, and with a coach who knows a thing or two about comebacks.