Washington Commanders head coach Dan Quinn announced at a Tuesday press conference that quarterback Jayden Daniels is expected to play more from under center in the upcoming season under new offensive coordinator David Blough, aiming to enhance the team’s offensive dynamics.
Quinn emphasized that unlocking Daniels’ full potential was a key factor in promoting Blough, who served as the assistant quarterbacks coach for the past two years. The decision to part ways with former coordinator Kliff Kingsbury was mutual, following a season where the offense struggled with consistency and Daniels missed significant time due to injuries. Quinn believes that incorporating more under-center plays will provide better balance and create explosive opportunities in both the running and passing games.
Jayden Daniels, the 2024 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year, showcased exceptional talent in his debut season, throwing for 3,568 yards and 25 touchdowns while adding 891 rushing yards and six scores. He led the Commanders to the NFC Championship Game, but his sophomore year was marred by multiple injuries, including a sprained knee, hamstring issue, and a dislocated left elbow. These setbacks limited him to just seven games and four finishes, ultimately leading to his early shutdown in Week 14 as the team’s playoff hopes faded.
David Blough, now stepping into the offensive coordinator role, has a solid rapport with Daniels from their time working together. Quinn noted that while Daniels wasn’t directly involved in staff decisions, his development drives much of the offensive planning. Blough expressed confidence that playing more under center will suit Daniels’ skill set, improving his fundamentals and allowing for a more varied playbook. This approach contrasts sharply with Kingsbury’s system, which heavily relied on no-huddle and shotgun formations.
Statistically, the Commanders have been an outlier in under-center usage over the past two seasons, running a league-low 192 such plays—158 fewer than the next closest team. Daniels attempted only 18 passes from under center during this period. Quinn highlighted that increasing this number will help the offense evolve, providing better run-action and play-action possibilities that can confuse defenses and maximize Daniels’ athleticism.
The change signals a broader philosophical shift for the Commanders, moving away from the fast-paced, pass-heavy scheme of previous years toward a more traditional, balanced attack. Quinn described the new offense as “aggressive” and focused on featuring every aspect of Daniels’ game, including his mobility and decision-making. This adjustment is expected to reduce the offensive predictability that contributed to last season’s struggles and injuries.
Looking ahead, the success of this transition will hinge on Daniels’ health and his ability to adapt to the new system. The Commanders are optimistic that a refreshed offensive strategy, coupled with Daniels’ talent, can propel them back into playoff contention. With the offseason underway, the team will focus on implementing these changes during training camp, aiming for a stronger performance in the 2026 season.
This summary is based on reports from ESPN and Yahoo Sports, both published on February 10, 2026, confirming the timeliness and reliability of the information.
