Ryan Grubb played a key role in Washington’s success under Kalen DeBoer. While many Husky fans would have liked for Grubb to succeed DeBoer as UW’s head coach, that won’t be happening.

Grubb posted a note late Saturday telling Husky fans that he did not get the head coaching job and has coached his last game at Washington. It’s an emotional farewell for Grubb.

“Though I wanted to be I will not be the next head coach at the University of Washington,” Grubb wrote in a note posted to social media. “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.

“This program has blessed me with mentors like Jen Cohen and Chris Petersen – I leave blessed with their friendship. Seattle is the best!!! Husky fans are the best (even the ones that hate me sometimes ….always love). 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!!!

Grubb has been in coaching since 2003. The 2023 season was his second in the Power 5 ranks, serving as Washington’s offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach. Under Grubb, QB Michael Penix Jr. broke records leading the Huskies high-powered attack.

This season, Washington was No. 2 nationally in passing offense, averaging 343.7 years per game through the air. The Huskies were No. 12 in total offense (462.1 yards per game) and No. 13 in scoring offense (36 points per game). ESPN’s FPI ranked Washington No. 5 in offensive efficiency for the 2023 season.

In 2022, Grubb’s first season at Washington, the Huskies improved dramatically on offense. After previously finishing 73rd in passing offense and 114th in total offense, the Huskies led the nation with 369.8 passing yards per game and were second in total offense, averaging 515.8 yards per contest.

ESPN’s Pete Thamel included Arizona coach Jedd Fisch, Iowa State coach Matt Campbell, UNLV coach Barry Odom, Kansas State coach Chris Klieman, Utah coach Kyle Whittingham, Wake Forest coach Dave Clawson and BYU coach Kalani Sitake on an early list of candidates for the Washington job along with Grubb.