ASHBURN, Va. — Kliff Kingsbury is set to remain as the offensive coordinator for the Washington Commanders for another season. This decision was widely anticipated due to his positive rapport with Dan Quinn’s coaching staff, particularly as they work with young quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Reports from various sources on Tuesday indicated that Kingsbury had garnered interest from the New Orleans Saints regarding their head-coaching vacancy. However, he informed them and other NFL teams of his decision to stick with the Commanders. At present, the Saints are the last remaining open head-coaching position following the appointments of new coaches by teams including Chicago, Dallas, New England, Jacksonville, Las Vegas, and New York Jets.
“I’m very happy here,” Kingsbury stated recently. “This has been an amazing place for me and has truly helped me rediscover my passion for the game.”
Kingsbury continues to receive payment from the Arizona Cardinals, reportedly at a rate of $7.5 million annually until 2027, following a long-term contract he signed in 2022. He was let go just 11 months after signing the extension alongside the team’s general manager, Steve Keim.
Having previously coached Patrick Mahomes at Texas Tech and worked with Caleb Williams at Southern California, Kingsbury has proven to be an excellent match for Daniels and the Commanders. Under the direction of general manager Adam Peters and Quinn, Kingsbury’s offensive strategies helped Washington rank fifth in scoring during the regular season, leading to a 12-5 record, two playoff victories, and a trip to the NFC Championship game in Philadelphia.
Kingsbury had communicated to teams that he would not participate in any interviews until the completion of the Commanders’ season.
In related roster news on Tuesday, the Commanders signed many of their young practice squad players to reserve/future contracts. Notable players returning include former quarterbacks Sam Hartman from Notre Dame and Wake Forest and several remaining draft picks from Ron Rivera’s tenure, such as tight end Cole Turner and defensive end Andre Jones Jr.
