The winds of change are swirling in Buffalo, and the Bills are wasting no time reshaping their coaching staff for 2026. After parting ways with head coach Sean McDermott, the franchise made a decisive move by promoting Joe Brady-formerly the team’s offensive coordinator-to the head coaching role. It’s a bold step, but one that signals continuity on offense and a belief in Brady’s vision for the team’s future.
Brady’s elevation isn’t the only shift. The Bills also brought in Pete Carmichael, the longtime New Orleans Saints offensive mind who most recently served as an assistant in Denver, to take over as offensive coordinator.
Carmichael brings a wealth of experience and a reputation for creative play design, especially in the passing game. With Josh Allen still at the helm, this pairing could unlock new dimensions in Buffalo’s offense-especially if Carmichael can bring some of that Saints-era efficiency to a unit that’s been explosive but inconsistent.
But while the offensive side of the ball is coming into focus, the defensive picture is still developing. Bobby Babich, who had been a key figure on the Bills’ defensive staff, is headed to Green Bay to join the Packers. That leaves a significant vacancy at defensive coordinator-a role that’s especially critical for a team that has leaned heavily on its defense in recent years.
One name drawing serious attention is Jim Leonhard, currently the Broncos’ assistant head coach and defensive pass game coordinator. Leonhard is widely respected around the league for his schematic acumen and ability to develop talent in the secondary.
The Bills are reportedly interested in bringing him to Orchard Park-but they’re not alone. The Baltimore Ravens are also in the mix, and Leonhard is set to interview for their defensive coordinator position as well.
It’s a competitive situation, and Buffalo will need to act decisively if they want to secure Leonhard’s services. His track record, both as a coordinator and as a teacher of the game, makes him a hot commodity this offseason.
Beyond Leonhard, there are other intriguing options still on the board. Raheem Morris, who had a strong 2025 season working with standout defenders like James Pearce and Xavier Watts, is available.
Morris brings head coaching experience and a reputation for getting the most out of his players. Jim Schwartz, currently with the Browns, is another name worth watching.
Schwartz is a veteran defensive mind with a Super Bowl pedigree and a knack for building aggressive, disciplined units.
The Bills’ offseason is far from over, but the early moves show a franchise intent on retooling rather than rebuilding. With Brady and Carmichael in place, the offensive identity is beginning to take shape. Now, the focus shifts to the other side of the ball-where the right hire at defensive coordinator could be the difference between another playoff push and a deeper postseason run.