Former NFL QB Promoted to Offensive Coordinator After Two Seasons
David Blough has been promoted from assistant quarterbacks coach to the Washington Commanders’ offensive coordinator, marking a rapid ascension within the organization’s coaching ranks. The move comes after the Commanders parted ways with offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury following the team’s 2025 regression.
At just 30 years old, Blough had garnered interest from the Detroit Lions for their own offensive coordinator vacancy, but the Commanders acted quickly to retain him. According to NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, Blough represents one of the league’s youngest and brightest offensive minds, despite his limited coaching experience.
Quick Rise Through Coaching Ranks
Blough joined the Commanders as an assistant QB coach in 2024, working directly with quarterback Jayden Daniels. His elevation to offensive coordinator after just two seasons in a coaching capacity highlights the organization’s confidence in his potential as a play-caller.
Background as Player and Coach
Before his coaching career, Blough played college football at Purdue, where he ranks ninth on the Big Ten’s all-time passing leaderboard with 9,734 passing yards from 2015 to 2018. Undrafted in 2019, he appeared on NFL rosters from 2019 to 2023, including stints with the Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions, and Arizona Cardinals.
During his playing career, Blough gained experience under several notable offensive minds—Ben Johnson, Kevin O’Connell, and Kliff Kingsbury—experience that could shape his play-calling approach with the Commanders.
Building on Established Offense
Blough’s close working relationship with Daniels should facilitate a smooth transition. His familiarity with Kingsbury’s offensive system from their time together suggests the Commanders may maintain continuity in their offensive scheme rather than implementing wholesale changes.
