Kliff Kingsbury to Rams: Former Commanders OC Joins LA’s Coaching Staff

LOS ANGELES – The Los Angeles Rams are bolstering their offensive coaching staff with a familiar face, adding former Washington Commanders offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury, sources confirmed Friday. The move comes as the Rams navigate the departure of offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur, who recently accepted the head coaching position with the Arizona Cardinals.

Kingsbury’s arrival in Los Angeles marks a return to the NFC West, where he previously served as head coach of the Arizona Cardinals from 2019 to 2022. While his specific role with the Rams remains to be determined, his experience and offensive acumen are expected to be valuable assets as Sean McVay seeks a replacement for LaFleur. The Rams led the league in offense this past season, averaging 394.6 yards and 30.5 points per game, and McVay has indicated an “extensive search” for a coordinator capable of maintaining that level of production.

The timing of Kingsbury’s hiring is particularly noteworthy given the recent success of the Rams’ offense and the continued presence of key players. Quarterback Matthew Stafford, fresh off being named NFL MVP on Thursday night, has announced his intention to return for an 18th season. The Rams also boast a potent receiving corps featuring Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, alongside a strong running back tandem of Kyren Williams and Blake Corum, all of whom are under contract through 2026. Kingsbury’s offensive philosophy is expected to complement the existing talent and potentially elevate the unit even further.

Kingsbury’s two-year stint with the Washington Commanders concluded with a mutual agreement to part ways in January. During his time in Washington, the team faced challenges, including significant injuries to key players such as quarterback Jayden Daniels and wide receiver Terry McLaurin. Despite Daniels’ impressive rookie campaign – earning him Offensive Rookie of the Year honors in 2024 – the Commanders finished 22nd in both scoring and total yards in 2025. Reports indicated internal disagreements within the Commanders organization regarding the preferred offensive style contributed to the decision to move in a different direction.

Prior to his time in Washington, Kingsbury established himself as an offensive mind during his tenure as head coach at Texas Tech, where he coached current NFL star Patrick Mahomes. His ability to develop quarterbacks and implement dynamic offensive schemes will be highly sought after in his new role with the Rams. He was also instrumental in Jayden Daniels’ impressive rookie season with the Commanders.

The Rams’ coaching staff was a hot commodity during this year’s hiring cycle, with several members considered for head coaching positions. LaFleur’s departure to Arizona highlighted the strength of McVay’s team, and Kingsbury’s addition further solidifies the Rams’ position as a contender in the NFC. The team’s recent loss to Seattle in the NFC Championship Game undoubtedly fueled the desire to reinforce the offensive side of the ball, and Kingsbury’s arrival is a clear indication of that commitment.

The Rams now face the task of determining Kingsbury’s specific responsibilities within the offensive structure. Internal candidate Nathan Scheelhaase, the current passing game coordinator, is also under consideration for the offensive coordinator role, having interviewed for a head coaching position with the Cleveland Browns. Should Scheelhaase be promoted, Kingsbury could potentially step into the passing game coordinator position, leveraging his expertise in that area. Regardless of the final arrangement, Kingsbury’s presence is expected to inject fresh ideas and further refine an already potent Rams offense.

Kingsbury’s return to the NFC West sets the stage for intriguing matchups against his former team, the Arizona Cardinals, now led by head coach Mike LaFleur. The Cardinals’ hiring of LaFleur and the Rams’ acquisition of Kingsbury represent a significant shift in the divisional landscape, promising compelling strategic battles in the seasons to come. The Rams will be looking to build on their success and return to the NFC Championship Game, and Kingsbury’s contributions will be crucial to that effort.