Kliff Kingsbury Declines Head Coaching Pursuits to Focus on Commanders’ Offense

Kliff Kingsbury, the Washington Commanders' offensive coordinator, has opted to forego head coaching opportunities, choosing instead to concentrate on developing the team's offense. Kingsbury, who was the Arizona Cardinals' head coach from 2019 to 2022, had received a five-year contract extension with the Cardinals in 2022. Despite this commitment, the Cardinals dismissed him less than a year later, although they continue to pay him as per his contract terms.

Kingsbury's decision not to pursue head coaching roles was evident when he declined all potential coaching interviews while the Commanders remained in playoff contention. Had the Commanders advanced to the Super Bowl, league rules would have restricted him from interviewing until after the championship game. Even after the Commanders' playoff journey ended, Kingsbury remained steadfast in his decision not to entertain interviews.

The offensive coordinator has expressed contentment with his current situation in Washington. His role allows him to focus on orchestrating the offense and nurturing rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels, who is widely regarded as the frontrunner for Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. Kingsbury's dedication to Daniels is evident in his recent statement to ESPN, where he remarked:

"it would take a lot to leave this kid." – Kliff Kingsbury

Kingsbury's enthusiasm for working with Daniels and his commitment to the Commanders has led him to withdraw from any head coaching considerations for the 2025 season. A team source confirmed this decision to ESPN on Tuesday. His name was among three coaches officially requested by the New Orleans Saints for interviews, all of whom later withdrew from the process.

Although Kingsbury has expressed a long-term ambition to return as a head coach, stating in December that he would like "to be a head coach again at some point," he remains focused on his current responsibilities. His current engagement with the Commanders and working with Daniels seems to provide a fulfilling professional challenge.