Kingsbury’s Commitment to Commanders’ Success
In a significant development for the NFL coaching landscape, Kliff Kingsbury has chosen to remain with the Washington Commanders as their offensive coordinator, despite receiving multiple head coaching interview requests. According to Fox Sports’ Jordan Schultz, Kingsbury’s decision emphasizes his commitment to developing rising star quarterback Jayden Daniels.
Rising Stock and Strategic Patience
Kingsbury’s professional trajectory has seen a remarkable upswing following his successful first season with the Commanders. After his dismissal from the Arizona Cardinals, where he faced scrutiny during a challenging 4-13 season in 2022, Kingsbury has engineered an impressive career renaissance. His work with rookie sensation Jayden Daniels has particularly caught the attention of NFL decision-makers.
Multiple Teams Express Interest
Several NFL organizations, including the Chicago Bears, New Orleans Saints, and Dallas Cowboys, showed keen interest in Kingsbury for their head coaching positions. The Saints and Bears formally requested interviews on January 9, while the Cowboys later expressed interest in the Texas native. However, Kingsbury’s focus remained steadfast on his current role in Washington.
The Daniels Factor
A key element in Kingsbury’s decision appears to be his relationship with rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels. The young quarterback’s exceptional rookie season, which has him positioned as the likely Offensive Rookie of the Year, created a compelling reason for Kingsbury to maintain continuity in Washington’s offensive system.
Future Prospects and Career Strategy
At 45, Kingsbury’s decision to stay with the Commanders demonstrates strategic career planning. His previous experience includes an unusual path from being dismissed by Texas Tech to securing an NFL head coaching position with the Cardinals. His brief but impactful stint at USC, where he mentored Caleb Williams, helped rebuild his reputation in the coaching community.
Impact on Saints’ Head Coach Search
With Kingsbury removing himself from consideration, the Saints’ head coaching search continues with candidates including Kellen Moore, Mike McCarthy, Mike Kafka, and Anthony Weaver. The team faces additional challenges with salary cap constraints and quarterback considerations surrounding Derek Carr’s contract.
Looking Ahead: 2026 and Beyond
By choosing to remain with a rising Commanders team, Kingsbury positions himself for potential head coaching opportunities in 2026. His continued development of Jayden Daniels could further enhance his credentials, making him an even more attractive candidate for future head coaching positions.
This strategic move reflects both patience and foresight, as Kingsbury focuses on building a strong foundation with the Commanders rather than pursuing immediate advancement opportunities.