The Commanders’ concern for losing Kliff Kingsbury grows as an NFL insider links him to two potential head coach landing spots
The Commanders might have to replace Kliff Kingsbury if he leaves for the Titans’ or Raiders’ head coach openings, as an NFL insider suggests.
The Washington Commanders have just one game left against the Philadelphia Eagles this weekend before a very crucial offseason begins.
Sunday night will mark the end of the 2025 season for many teams, and then comes Black Monday, when teams will make major changes to their coaching staffs for the offseason. There are already a few head coach openings, with others expected to open when the season ends.
The Commanders are expected to make some coaching changes on the defensive side of the ball, but they might have to replace Kliff Kingsbury, who has been linked to two openings despite a down year.
NFL insider links Kliff Kingsbury to two teams for head coaching opportunities
Kingsbury had plenty of interest after last season, with the offense’s success led by quarterback Jayden Daniels, but he decided to return to the Commanders. This season has been the complete opposite of what everyone expected, with Daniels and Terry McLaurin missing the majority of the year. Kingsbury is still a hot name, and he didn’t shut down the idea of being a head coach again when he was asked about it.
ESPN’s Jeremy Fowler stated in his latest article that Kingsbury will be a fit for the Las Vegas Raiders and the Tennessee Titans.
“Kingsbury’s head-coaching candidacy is interesting despite Washington’s struggles. The Commanders rank 21st in total offense — ahead of Tampa Bay, Philadelphia, and Pittsburgh — despite a poor supporting cast ravaged by injury. He’s a potential fit in Tennessee, with a young quarterback in Cam Ward who fits his style of offense. Las Vegas, should that job open as many around the league expect, will take a hard look at improving its offense. Kingsbury has been selective but is also open to becoming a head coach again. So while he’s not the shiniest name because of Washington’s record, I could see him being in the mix again.” – Jeremy Fowler, ESPN
When the game ends on Sunday, the season will be over, and Kingsbury will be free to interview with any team he wants. I expect him to at least interview, even if he doesn’t leave. Kingsbury was very selective last offseason, but the Raiders and Titans might be interesting fits for him to check in on.
Why Kingsbury could potentially want the Titans or Raiders job
People might see the Titans and the Raiders as a nightmare scenario for a coach, but Kingsbury should be a top candidate for both. Having an offensive-minded head coach is still a premium in the league right now, especially with young quarterbacks, and there just simply aren’t many at all this coaching cycle outside of Kingsbury and Klint Kubiak.
The Titans saw flashes in rookie quarterback Cam Ward, which should have them excited for next season as they continue to build around him. Kingsbury could continue to unlock Ward as he did for Daniels in his rookie season, and Ward fits his offensive style.
The Raiders are another team that people are hesitant about, and their season was nothing like they expected. They’re in a great position this offseason, though, with their salary cap space, a lot of draft capital, and potentially the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. They need to find their next franchise quarterback and start winning while the Kansas City Chiefs are down, and Kingsbury can help ramp up their offense.
There’s no certainty that Kingsbury would leave for either of these jobs, but don’t be surprised when he at least interviews, or if any others open up on Black Monday.