The Buffalo Bills are in the middle of a franchise-defining offseason, and the search for their next head coach just got a little more interesting. On Thursday, the team officially confirmed that they’ve completed an interview with Indianapolis Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo - a seasoned defensive mind who’s no stranger to high-stakes football.
Anarumo, who just wrapped up his first year with the Colts, brings a wealth of experience to the table. Before landing in Indianapolis, he spent five years as the defensive coordinator for the Cincinnati Bengals, helping guide them through some of their most competitive seasons in recent memory. His units in Cincinnati were known for being disciplined, versatile, and tough in the trenches - a style that could mesh well with Buffalo’s current roster makeup.
He becomes the third known candidate to sit down with the Bills for the head coaching job, joining current Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady and former New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll. Of course, Daboll’s name carries weight in Buffalo - he was the team’s offensive coordinator during some of Josh Allen’s most formative years, and his familiarity with the organization could make him a serious contender.
But the Bills aren’t stopping there. According to league sources, the team has a wide-ranging list of candidates they plan to speak with.
That list includes Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski, and Washington Commanders run game coordinator and running backs coach Anthony Lynn. Daboll and Anarumo were reportedly the first two to get in-person interviews, a sign that the Bills are wasting no time in doing their homework.
This coaching search comes on the heels of the surprising dismissal of Sean McDermott, a move that sent shockwaves through the league. McDermott helped turn the Bills into perennial contenders, and whoever takes over will be expected to keep that momentum going - and then some. The expectations in Buffalo are sky-high, and the window to contend is very much open.
For now, Anarumo’s name is officially in the mix, and his defensive pedigree adds an intriguing wrinkle to a coaching search that’s shaping up to be one of the most pivotal in recent Bills history.