Following the 2025 NFL draft, the Indianapolis Colts face an offseason dilemma regarding their unrestricted free agents. With 21 players entering free agency, the Colts have re-signed only five, leaving many key contributors unsigned or transferred to other teams. General Manager Chris Ballard has shifted strategy, signing impactful players like cornerback Charvarius Ward and quarterback Daniel Jones, aiming to revitalize a roster that failed to make the playoffs last season.

Significant free agents such as offensive lineman Ryan Kelly and tight end Kylen Granson have already signed with other teams, highlighting the Colts' need to fill gaps in their roster. Players like Julian Blackmon and Taven Bryan are still available, but their previous seasons raise questions about their potential contributions. Blackmon's injury struggles and Bryan's minimal impact suggest a cautious approach might be necessary. The emphasis now will be on enhancing areas of need, particularly the offensive line and defensive depth.

Dan Quinn's approach to quarterback development for the Washington Commanders reflects a growing trend in the NFL: hiring younger QB coaches. Quinn recruited David Blough, a former practice squad QB, to become the assistant quarterbacks coach, emphasizing that having recent players in coaching roles can enhance player development. The average age of assistant quarterbacks coaches has plummeted to 31.25 years, with many former QBs like Kellen Moore and Ben Johnson making significant impacts on their teams' quarterbacks.

Blough played a pivotal role in Jayden Daniels' success as a rookie, showcasing the benefits of his fresh perspective and knowledge of the game. As organizations increasingly lean on young coaching talent to mold quarterbacks, this strategy could reshape the landscape of QB development in the league.

The Washington Commanders may see significant changes in their coaching staff this offseason, particularly with assistant QB coach David Blough attracting interest from other NFL teams. NFL Network's Mike Garafolo reported that both the New York Jets and Chicago Bears have requested interviews with Blough for their respective QB coaching positions and passing game coordinator roles. This marks a notable development for Blough, who has only been in coaching for a year.

Before transitioning to coaching, David Blough had a brief playing career. He went undrafted in the 2019 NFL Draft after playing for Purdue and initially signed with the Cleveland Browns' practice squad. He later had stints with the Detroit Lions, Minnesota Vikings, and Arizona Cardinals, before eventually retiring to pursue coaching with the Commanders under offensive coordinator Kliff Kingsbury. His recent work with rookie QB Jayden Daniels has garnered attention, leading to potential opportunities with other teams.

The Detroit Lions are set to face the Washington Commanders in the NFC Divisional Round at Ford Field, with the game time still to be announced. The Commanders secured their playoff spot by narrowly defeating the Tampa Bay Buccaneers with a last-minute field goal by Zane Gonzalez. Rookie quarterback Jayden Daniels has emerged as a key player for Washington, boasting impressive statistics including 3,568 passing yards and 891 rushing yards this season.

This matchup marks a significant postseason encounter, as the Lions and Commanders have historically faced off in three playoff games, all won by Washington. Notably, one of these encounters was Detroit's first appearance in the NFC Championship game in 1991, where they were defeated 41-10.