Washington’s next head coach is expected to be announced in the next 24 to 48 hours.
It will not be Ryan Grubb.
Grubb — who just completed his second season as the Huskies’ standout offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach — announced his exit from the program on social media Saturday night. It’s likely he follows former UW coach Kalen DeBoer to call plays at Alabama.
“Though I wanted to be I will not be the next head coach at the University of Washington,” Grubb wrote. “It would have been a dream to stay here and fight to maintain the standard that had been reestablished. I showed up every day early and stayed late gladly to fight for my family….And with tears in my eyes I know my last day in Husky Stadium has come.”
In two spectacular seasons in Seattle, Grubb led an offense that went 25-3 and mentored standout quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who finished second in the Heisman Trophy voting in 2023. His Huskies ranked second nationally in passing yards per game (343.7), sixth in sacks allowed (12), eighth in yards per play (7.04), 12th in total offense (462.1 yards per game) and 13th in scoring (36 points per game) this fall.
Possible candidates to succeed DeBoer in Seattle include Arizona coach Jedd Fisch, Kansas coach Lance Leipold, Kansas State coach Chris Klieman, Iowa State coach Matt Campbell and UW assistant head coach and wide receivers coach JaMarcus Shephard.
As for Grubb, he’ll leave Montlake with fond memories.
“I know I was far from perfect but know I sacrificed all I could to bring our best every week. The passion and love this city has is rare….And I am so blessed to have been here. Thank you for all the support and belief you gave to me and my family….We will always love Seattle! To my players…I am sorry I could not finish the fight – I love you!!! Go Dawgs!!!”