Would a mutation in a red blood cell be passed on to offspring? Explain your answer.

Mutations acquired by somatic cells are generally only retained by the individual they acquire in as there is no vector by which to transmit the mutation.

Between generations, the only mutations that may be transmitted are those already acquired from a parent, and those that occur within the individuals own germ cells. If mutations in the germ cells result in sperm or eggs that contain that mutation, then they may be transmitted to their offspring.

Red blood cells in all humans and other mammals, though, don't contain nuclear DNA and as such cannot acquire mutations.