The Washington Commanders have promoted David Blough, previously the quarterbacks coach, to the position of offensive coordinator. This decision comes after a challenging season for the team, during which they struggled to maintain offensive momentum. Blough, 30, steps into this pivotal role as the Commanders look to revitalize their performance, particularly with quarterback Jayden Daniels at the helm.
Blough’s coaching journey has been notably swift. After concluding his playing career in 2023, he transitioned into coaching, quickly rising through the ranks. He began as the assistant quarterbacks coach under Commanders head coach Dan Quinn and later took over as quarterbacks coach after Tavita Pritchard left to lead Stanford’s football program in November. This promotion marks a significant step for Blough, who has already garnered interest from other franchises, highlighting his emerging reputation in the NFL coaching landscape.
Background and Coaching Career
A former standout at Purdue University, Blough went undrafted in 2019. He spent several seasons as a backup quarterback, first with the Detroit Lions and then the Arizona Cardinals. His final playing season came in 2022, after which he joined the Lions’ practice squad in 2023 but did not see any game action. Following his transition to coaching, Blough’s quick ascent reflects his keen understanding of the game and ability to connect with players.
The Commanders’ 2025 season was marred by injuries to key players, including Daniels and receiver Terry McLaurin. As a result, the team’s offensive performance dipped significantly, ranking 22nd in points per game with an average of 20.9, and 22nd in total yards per game at 318.8. Their passing game was particularly affected, finishing 24th with just 184.1 yards per game. This decline led to the dismissal of offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, creating an opportunity for Blough to step into a more prominent role.
Looking Ahead
With Blough now at the helm of the offense, the Commanders aim to regain their competitive edge. The franchise is hopeful that his fresh perspective and familiarity with the players will prove beneficial in overcoming the challenges faced last season. Quinn’s decision to promote Blough rather than seeking an external candidate reflects confidence in his abilities and potential.
The upcoming season will be crucial not only for Blough’s career but also for the future of the Commanders. As they prepare to face renewed challenges, all eyes will be on how effectively Blough can lead the offense in a highly competitive league.
