The Buffalo Bills aren’t playing it safe in their head coaching search - and that’s exactly what GM Brandon Beane promised. When he said the process would be “100% open,” he wasn’t exaggerating. The list of candidates already interviewed or reportedly on the docket shows the team is casting a wide net - across coaching levels, experience, and even current job status.
Let’s break down where things stand in Buffalo’s wide-ranging search, from seasoned defensive minds to rising offensive stars - and even a recently retired quarterback with Hall of Fame credentials.
Confirmed Interviews
Lou Anarumo - Colts Defensive Coordinator
Interview Date: Jan. 22
Anarumo brings 37 years of coaching experience, including 14 in the NFL. He just wrapped up his first season as the Colts' defensive coordinator after a six-year run leading the Bengals' defense. His units have consistently been known for their flexibility - tailoring game plans week to week based on opponent tendencies.
In 2025, the Colts defense ranked top 10 in rush yards allowed, yards per carry, and pass yards allowed - a testament to Anarumo’s ability to get the most out of his personnel. At 59, he’s a veteran mind who’s seen just about everything, and his defensive adaptability could be a major asset to a team looking to evolve on that side of the ball.
Brian Daboll - Former Giants Head Coach
Interview Date: Jan. 22
Bills fans know this name well. Daboll was Buffalo’s offensive coordinator from 2018 to 2021, overseeing Josh Allen’s rise from raw prospect to MVP-caliber franchise quarterback. During Daboll’s four years running the offense, the Bills went 40-25 and consistently ranked among the league’s most explosive units.
Most recently, Daboll served as head coach of the New York Giants from 2022 to 2025. While his tenure in New York had its ups and downs, his offensive pedigree and deep familiarity with Allen make him a compelling candidate to return. Add in the fact that Daboll grew up in nearby West Seneca, and there’s a strong hometown connection at play here.
Joe Brady - Bills Offensive Coordinator
Interview Date: Jan. 21
Brady was the first name through the door following Sean McDermott’s dismissal - and for good reason. In his two full seasons calling plays, the Bills finished in the top five in scoring both years. Under his guidance, Josh Allen captured the 2024 NFL MVP, and James Cook led the league in rushing in 2025.
At just 35, Brady is widely viewed as one of the top young head coaching candidates in the league. He’s already built strong rapport with the locker room, and continuity could be a major selling point for a team that’s been on the cusp of a Super Bowl for several seasons.
Reported or Upcoming Interviews
(Not yet confirmed by the team)
Mike McDaniel - Former Dolphins Head Coach
McDaniel has reportedly agreed to become the Chargers’ offensive coordinator, but that hasn’t stopped Buffalo from reaching out. He’s still eligible to interview for head coaching jobs, and his inclusion in the Bills’ search speaks volumes about how open-minded the front office truly is.
Known for his creative offensive schemes and ability to maximize speed and spacing, McDaniel would bring a fresh approach - and a bit of AFC East familiarity - to Buffalo’s sideline.
Philip Rivers - Former NFL Quarterback
Yes, that Philip Rivers. The longtime Chargers and Colts quarterback reportedly came out of retirement to start three games for the Colts in December before hanging it up again. While his coaching résumé is limited to five seasons at the high school level, Rivers brings 17 years of NFL experience and a deep understanding of offensive football.
He also shares a close relationship with Josh Allen, which could be a factor in his candidacy. It’s an unconventional possibility, but one that reflects the Bills’ willingness to think outside the box.
Anthony Lynn - Commanders Run Game Coordinator
Lynn has deep ties to Buffalo, having served as running backs coach, offensive coordinator, and interim head coach in 2016 after Rex Ryan was let go. He later went on to post a 33-31 record as head coach of the Chargers.
Currently the run game coordinator in Washington, Lynn is known for his leadership skills, ground-game expertise, and ability to connect with players. His familiarity with the Bills organization could make him a strong cultural fit.
Grant Udinski - Jaguars Offensive Coordinator
At just 30 years old, Udinski is one of the youngest coordinators in the NFL. He’s been credited with helping stabilize Trevor Lawrence’s development in Jacksonville and has earned praise for his modern offensive concepts.
He represents the next generation of offensive minds - and while his age might raise eyebrows, his track record with young quarterbacks could be appealing for a team built around Josh Allen’s prime.
Anthony Weaver - Dolphins Defensive Coordinator
Weaver has been steadily climbing the coaching ladder and made a strong impression in Miami, where he led a defense that showed flashes of dominance in 2025. A former NFL defensive lineman, Weaver brings a player’s perspective to his coaching and has earned respect for his communication skills and defensive acumen.
What It All Means
This isn’t your typical head coaching search. The Bills are looking far beyond the usual suspects, blending established NFL minds with rising stars and even a few surprises. Whether it’s a familiar face like Daboll, a hotshot coordinator like Brady or Udinski, or a bold play like Rivers, the range of candidates reflects a franchise willing to explore every angle.
Buffalo knows the window is still open. With Josh Allen in his prime and a roster built to contend, the next head coach won’t be walking into a rebuild - they’ll be expected to win, and win now. Beane and company are making sure they find the right person to do just that.