Washington Commanders: Restructuring After a Difficult Season
The Washington Commanders are experiencing significant changes in their coaching staff after a season that did not meet expectations. After a campaign in which the team failed to advance to the playoffs, the organization has decided to dispense with its offensive and defensive coordinators.
Offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and the Commanders mutually agreed to part ways. At the same time, defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. was fired.
Washington’s defense performed below expectations, finishing last in yards and 27th in points. This situation contrasts with the previous season, where the team ranked 18th in points and 13th in yards.
The Commanders’ season was marked by a 5-12 record, far from the 12-5 of the previous year.
Kingsbury, who still had a year on his contract, is expected to explore opportunities to be a head coach. The Commanders’ offense was affected by injuries, especially in key positions.
Quarterback Jayden Daniels only played four complete games, and receiver Terry McLaurin participated in nine. Both players had been selected for the Pro Bowl in the previous season.
Additionally, the team lost starting running back Austin Ekeler to an Achilles tendon injury and tight end Zach Ertz to a torn ACL.
The offense finished 22nd in points and yards. In the previous season, with Daniels winning the Offensive Rookie of the Year award, Washington ranked fifth in points and seventh in yards.
Daniels and Kingsbury had a work routine that included morning practice sessions. Daniels expressed his appreciation for Kingsbury, but differences arose regarding the offensive style.
Head coach Dan Quinn was looking for a more run-focused approach to control the clock and support the defense. The Commanders utilized the no-huddle more than any other team.
Quinn acknowledged the positive aspects of Kingsbury’s non-stop offense, but emphasized the importance of adapting the game to the players’ strengths.
Washington ranked ninth in rushing attempts, but only 25th in rushing yards by their running backs. The team was third in rushing attempts by quarterbacks.
Kingsbury defended his offensive approach, highlighting the success he has had with this style.
Whitt joined the Washington staff when Quinn was hired in January 2024, having worked with him in the past. The Commanders’ defense was also affected by injuries.
The starting defensive ends (Deatrich Wise Jr. and Dorance Armstrong) suffered injuries that prevented them from playing the rest of the season. In addition, the starting cornerbacks (Marshon Lattimore and Trey Amos) also missed the rest of the season due to injuries, as did starting safety Will Harris.
