Commanders Revamp Offense to Support QB Jayden Daniels in 2026

Quarterback Jayden Daniels faced a challenging season last year, missing significant playing time due to multiple injuries, which included a knee sprain, a hamstring strain, an elbow dislocation, and an additional elbow sprain. Reflecting on this tough period, Daniels expressed, “It left a bitter taste in my mouth. I mean, it sucked. … [It was] a miserable feeling to not go out and do what I do on a daily basis and having setbacks,” as reported by John Keim of ESPN.

In response to Daniels’ struggles, the Washington Commanders are planning significant changes to their offensive strategy ahead of the 2026 season. The team has parted ways with former offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury and is bringing in David Blough, who served as an assistant quarterbacks coach for the last two years. These adjustments aim to provide Daniels with a more secure environment to thrive.

Under the new system, Daniels is expected to take more snaps from under center, a shift that both Blough and head coach Dan Quinn believe will benefit the young quarterback. Previously, Daniels had minimal experience in this setup, with only 32 snaps from under center in his first two seasons, during which he completed 13 out of 18 pass attempts. However, recent OTA practices show Daniels taking on a greater role in this position.

These planned changes come as a relief for Commanders fans who are eager to see Daniels complete a healthy season. Last year's offensive approach, which often had him operating from the Shotgun and utilizing run-pass options, exposed him to unnecessary risks. This style of play frequently resulted in Daniels being on the move, which led to increased chances for injury.

Keeping Daniels safe is a top priority for Quinn and Blough, especially considering the impact that a reckless game plan can have on a quarterback’s longevity. The Commanders are determined to avoid a repeat of past mistakes, aiming to protect Daniels and ensure he doesn’t face the same fate as former QB Robert Griffin III.