Raheem Morris is once again a name to watch in the NFL coaching carousel-this time as a candidate for the Buffalo Bills' vacant defensive coordinator position. While his head coaching days may be on pause for now, there’s no denying Morris brings a wealth of experience and a Super Bowl pedigree that could make him a strong fit in Western New York.
At 49, Morris has worn a lot of hats in the league: head coach, defensive coordinator, position coach, and even interim leader. His most recent stint in Atlanta had its share of ups and downs, but one thing was clear-his defensive units played with energy and purpose. Though his time with the Falcons ended without a playoff run, Morris did help elevate that defense, even as the team struggled to find consistency on the whole.
Now, with the Bills undergoing a significant transition under new head coach Joe Brady, there’s a real opportunity for Morris to step into a situation that could play to his strengths. Buffalo’s defense, once a staple of the team’s identity, took a noticeable step back in 2025-especially against the run. That’s where Morris could be a difference-maker.
According to reports, the Bills are casting a wide net in their search for a new defensive coordinator. Alongside Morris, names like Jim Leonhard and Jim Schwartz have surfaced.
Schwartz, of course, has history in Buffalo, serving as the team’s DC back in 2014. But Morris brings something different-recent success, a Super Bowl ring from his time with the Rams in 2021, and a reputation for connecting with players on a personal level.
That last point matters. In today’s NFL, scheme is only part of the equation.
Coaches who can command a room, build trust, and adapt to the modern game are the ones who stick. Morris checks those boxes.
He’s not just a football mind-he’s a leader who players respond to, and that’s exactly what the Bills need as they look to reset their defensive identity.
Buffalo’s decision to move on from Sean McDermott-known for his defensive acumen-signals a desire for new ideas and a fresh voice. Morris, with his mix of experience and relatability, could be just what the franchise needs to get back on track.
He wouldn’t be walking into a rebuild, either. The Bills still have talent on that side of the ball, and with the right coordinator, they could return to being one of the league’s stingiest units.
There’s been talk that Morris might take a year off from coaching or explore opportunities in television, but if the Bills job is truly on the table, it’s one he should seriously consider. Much like his successful run with the Rams, this is a chance to join a playoff-caliber roster and make an immediate impact.
Morris may not be in line for another head coaching job just yet, but that doesn’t mean he’s out of the spotlight. The DC role in Buffalo could be the perfect next step-not just for him, but for a Bills defense looking to reclaim its bite.