The Buffalo Bills find themselves in a significant transitional phase following the firing of head coach Sean McDermott, who was let go after a season in which the team fell short of expectations. This decision opens up what many view as one of the most coveted head coaching positions in the NFL. Bills owner Terry Pegula’s action marks a new chapter for a franchise that once seemed on the cusp of greatness.
As the Bills embark on their coaching search, the focus will likely be on maximizing the potential of quarterback Josh Allen. With Allen’s impressive performance this season and recognition as a potential MVP for 2024, the new head coach will need to strategically align their offensive philosophy with his playing style.
Prominent candidates have already surfaced in connection with the Bills’ job. Offensive coordinator Joe Brady, whose close relationship with Allen has been noteworthy, is a serious contender. Brady has shown interest in multiple head coaching positions across the league and is set to interview with the Ravens and Cardinals. He previously withdrew from consideration for the Saints position last year and has two seasons worth of experience with the Bills that he hopes will bolster his candidacy.
Among other potential hires, former Bills offensive coordinator Brian Daboll has garnered attention. Daboll, who was pivotal in Allen’s development, took the head coaching role with the Giants, yet he is reportedly weighing his options amidst the coaching shuffle, keenly interested in remaining connected to Buffalo’s future.
Additionally, Davis Webb, currently serving as the Broncos’ quarterbacks coach, has been mentioned in connection with the opening. Webb shares a close friendship with Allen, which could complicate his candidacy if the Bills decide to prioritize a more traditional hire with more coaching experience.
The Bills are relatively late in their hiring process compared to other teams, with four head coaching vacancies already filled. There is pressure on general manager Brandon Beane, who now presides over football operations, to navigate this search efficiently, especially considering potential candidates still involved in the playoffs cannot be approached until after the Super Bowl.
The reason for McDermott’s departure reflects a growing conviction within the organization regarding their aspirations for a championship-caliber team. Pegula’s decision conveys a commitment to pursuing a new direction while aligning the chosen head coach with the ambitions of the roster, which many insiders believe is capable of competing for a title.
As the franchise looks ahead, the Bills will certainly garner significant interest from a breadth of coaching talent, eager to partner with a promising quarterback like Josh Allen. This search reflects not only the organization’s newfound ambitions but also the hopes of the fanbase for a rejuvenated team capable of overcoming recent disappointments and striving for success in the upcoming NFL seasons.