THE WASHINGTON COMMANDERS HIRE KLIFF KINGSBURY AS OFFENSIVE COORDINATOR
In a surprising move, the Washington Commanders have announced the hiring of Kliff Kingsbury as their next offensive coordinator. The team made the announcement on Monday, revealing that Kingsbury has signed a three-year deal. This news comes from Albert Breer of Sports Illustrated.
Kingsbury, who previously served as the head coach of the Arizona Cardinals, brings a wealth of experience to the Commanders. Before his stint with the Cardinals, the 44-year-old spent six seasons as the head coach of Texas Tech. During his time with the Cardinals, Kingsbury’s offense performed at an average level, ranking 16th in EPA/play according to Ben Baldwin’s database. However, the team never ranked higher than 10th in points per game in a single season.
The Commanders have also made a significant addition to their defensive coaching staff. Joe Whitt Jr., the former secondary coach and pass-game coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, has been hired as the team’s next defensive coordinator. Whitt Jr., who has spent the last three seasons with the Cowboys, brings a wealth of experience to the role. Additionally, he has served as the secondary coach for the Cleveland Browns, Atlanta Falcons, and the Green Bay Packers.
This hiring comes as part of the Commanders’ efforts to improve their struggling offense. Over the past few years, Washington has ranked 28th in offensive success rate, according to Baldwin’s database. They have also failed to crack the top 20 in points per game during that stretch. However, with the hiring of Kingsbury and the resources available to the team, including the most cap space in the NFL and the No. 2 pick in the upcoming draft, there is hope for a turnaround.
The Commanders’ new head coach, Dan Quinn, made the decision to bring in Kingsbury and Whitt Jr. as part of his efforts to revamp the coaching staff. Quinn, who previously served as the defensive coordinator for the Dallas Cowboys, is looking to make a significant impact in his new role.
With Kingsbury’s experience coaching USC quarterback Caleb Williams during the 2023 season, there is speculation that the Commanders may target Williams with their high draft pick. Williams is expected to be one of the first picks off the board in the upcoming NFL draft.
Overall, the hiring of Kliff Kingsbury and Joe Whitt Jr. brings new hope to the Washington Commanders as they aim to improve their offense and turn their fortunes around. With the resources at their disposal, including cap space and a high draft pick, the team is primed for a fresh start under the leadership of their new coaching staff.
