Kliff Kingsbury parting ways with Commanders as part of major changes

The Washington Commanders are undergoing significant changes in the wake of a disappointing season, and offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury is among those who are leaving the organization.

Kingsbury and the Commanders have mutually agreed to part ways, according to multiple reports. Washington has also reportedly fired defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr., so head coach Dan Quinn will be searching for two new top assistants.

Kingsbury received head-coaching interest following his successful first season as Washington's OC last year, when then-rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels led the team to the NFC Championship Game. The 46-year-old is expected to have head-coaching interviews once again this offseason.

Kliff Kingsbury's stock has risen

The Commanders went 5-12 this season, but Daniels played in only seven games due to injuries. Star wide receiver Terry McLaurin also missed seven games, so Kingsbury rarely had all of his top weapons on the field at the same time in 2025.

Daniels was named NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year last year after throwing for 3,568 yards, 25 touchdowns and nine interceptions. The former No. 2 overall pick also rushed for 891 yards and six scores. Washington was arguably the most surprising team in the NFL, and the offense that Kingsbury built with Daniels was one of the biggest factors in that.

Because of all the health issues the Commanders had this season, the poor results likely will not impact how other teams view Kingsbury. Even if he does not land a head-coaching job, he will likely become the top offensive coordinator candidate available

Kingsbury has prior NFL head-coaching experience, which should give him a leg up on some other candidates. He coached the Arizona Cardinals for four seasons from 2019-2022 and compiled a record of 28-37-1. Kingsbury led the Cardinals to the playoffs in 2021, where they lost in the opening round.