Daniels among Commanders players 'blindsided' by Kingsbury decision

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels. Amber Searls-Imagn Images

Jayden Daniels among Commanders players 'blindsided' by Kliff Kingsbury decision

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Jan 7, 2026 3:34 PM ET

Making a move that blindsides your No. 2 overall pick from just two seasons ago is certainly not a good look for any NFL franchise.

That is the case, though, in Landover, Md., after the Washington Commanders and offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury mutually agreed to part ways.

Report indicates that Washington Commanders QB Jayden Daniels was "blindsided" by the move

Kingsbury and second-year quarterback Daniels had formed an extremely close bond in the two years they spent together. According to NFL insider Jordan Schultz, Daniels, along with other key members of the Commanders offense, were "blindsided" by the decision to move off of Kingsbury.

The decision came just one day after both Daniels and his mother endorsed Kingsbury's return to Washington next season after an injury-riddled and disappointing 2025 season.

Headed in the right direction. Let's go!! Officially loading JD5/KK season 3 ❤️ #raisehail #httc #HTTR https://t.co/mbwJ8JTaS7
— Mz Jackson (@LovelyMzJackson) January 5, 2026

How much of Jayden Daniels' frustration will carry over?

After being injured for most of last season, Daniels will now have to learn a new offensive system heading into a crucial third season of his career.

His frustration and disappointment with the decision from the organization to part ways with Kingsbury could be important for the future. It could cause a ripple effect that includes Daniels not trusting the organization. That could lead to a lack of interest in a contract extension prior to his rookie deal expiring in either 2027 or 2028.

Washington Commanders' next offensive coordinator will be an important hire

An offense featuring Daniels, wide receiver Terry McLaurin, running back Jacory Croskey-Merritt and others is an attractive spot for a hopeful coordinator. It will be important for general manager Adam Peters to make a hire that aligns with the skillset of most offensive players, Daniels specifically.

A lackluster hire could lead to another disappointing season and be grounds for a reset just two years after reaching the NFC Championship game.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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