What's happened
Washington has promoted Scott Blough from assistant quarterbacks coach to offensive coordinator after a 5-12 season. The move follows the departure of Kliff Kingsbury and aims to provide continuity for quarterback Jayden Daniels. Blough's promotion marks his first full OC role amid coaching staff reshuffles.
What's behind the headline?
Critical Analysis
The promotion of Scott Blough to offensive coordinator reflects Washington's focus on continuity amid a turbulent season. Blough's background as a former NFL quarterback and his familiarity with Jayden Daniels suggest the team aims to stabilize its offense. This move also indicates a shift away from high-profile coaching hires like Kingsbury, emphasizing internal development.
However, the decision underscores the broader challenge of rebuilding after a poor season marked by injuries and defensive regress. Blough's success will depend on his ability to adapt the offense to the team's personnel and to develop Daniels further. The coaching reshuffle signals Washington's intent to prioritize stability and internal growth over external star power, which could either pay off or prolong the team's rebuilding phase.
Looking ahead, Blough's leadership will be tested as he navigates a roster in flux. The team's future success hinges on his ability to implement effective offensive strategies and foster player development, especially for Daniels, who remains central to Washington's plans.
What the papers say
The New York Post highlights Blough's rise from assistant coach to OC, emphasizing his background and the team's recent struggles. AP News notes the team's desire for continuity and the importance of Blough's familiarity with quarterback Jayden Daniels. Contrasting perspectives suggest that while internal promotion may bring stability, it also risks stagnation if not paired with strategic improvements. Both sources agree that Blough's promotion is a significant step in Washington's rebuilding process, but they differ on whether it will be enough to reverse the team's fortunes.
How we got here
Washington finished the 2025 season with a 5-12 record, a decline from their NFC title game appearance in 2024. The team faced injuries, notably to quarterback Jayden Daniels, and regressed defensively, prompting coaching changes including the dismissal of offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and defensive coordinator Joe Whitt Jr. Blough, a former NFL quarterback, was hired as an assistant QB coach in 2024 and stepped in as interim late in 2025.
Go deeper
- What is Scott Blough's coaching background?
- How might Blough influence Jayden Daniels' future?
- Are there other coaching changes expected in Washington?
More on these topics
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The Washington Football Team, previously known as the Washington Redskins, is a professional American football team based in the Washington metropolitan area. The team competes in the National Football League as a member of the NFC East division.
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Kliff Timothy Kingsbury is an American football coach and former player who is the head coach for the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League.
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David Marshall Blough is an American football quarterback for the Detroit Lions of the National Football League. He was Purdue's backup quarterback in 2015 and led the Boilermakers to a win against Nebraska.
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Jayden Daniels is an American football quarterback for the Arizona State University Sun Devils.