Philip Rivers Withdraws from Bills Coaching Search as NFL Sidelines Continue to Shift
Just as quickly as Philip Rivers’ name surfaced in the Buffalo Bills’ head coaching search, it’s already off the board. The former longtime Chargers quarterback, who recently came out of retirement for a brief stint with the Colts, interviewed with the Bills on Friday, January 23. But by Monday, Rivers had officially withdrawn from consideration, according to reports.
It’s a notable twist in what’s becoming one of the more intriguing coaching searches of this hiring cycle. The Bills are looking to reset after parting ways with Sean McDermott following their divisional-round playoff exit at the hands of the Denver Broncos. McDermott's tenure saw consistent postseason appearances, but the franchise is clearly aiming for a new direction-one that brings them closer to the Super Bowl ceiling they’ve been chasing for years.
Rivers, known for his fiery leadership and deep football IQ during his playing days, was an unconventional but intriguing name in the mix. His withdrawal narrows the field for Buffalo, which has already cast a wide net. Here’s a look at the candidates the Bills have brought in for interviews:
- Lou Anarumo, defensive coordinator for the Colts, who’s earned respect for his ability to scheme against high-powered offenses.
- Joe Brady, the Bills’ own offensive coordinator, whose familiarity with the roster and quarterback Josh Allen could be a key factor.
- Brian Daboll, the former Giants head coach and a familiar face in Buffalo, where he helped develop Allen into one of the league’s elite QBs.
- Anthony Lynn, currently the Commanders’ running backs coach, brings head coaching experience and a strong locker room presence.
- Grant Udinski, the Jaguars’ offensive coordinator, represents a young, rising mind with an innovative approach to offensive football.
- Anthony Weaver, defensive coordinator for the Dolphins, has been lauded for his leadership and ability to connect with players.
- Davis Webb, quarterbacks coach and pass game coordinator for the Broncos, is another young candidate with a growing reputation in coaching circles.
The Bills’ decision will be pivotal-not just for the trajectory of the franchise but for how they continue to build around Josh Allen in what should be his prime years. With Rivers out of the picture, the focus now shifts to these remaining contenders and how each might shape Buffalo’s identity moving forward.
NFL Coaching Carousel: Six Seats Filled, Four Still Up for Grabs
As of January 26, six NFL teams have filled their head coaching vacancies, and each hire brings its own storyline.
- Atlanta Falcons: Kevin Stefanski lands in Atlanta after his run with the Browns. He’s known for his offensive acumen and could be tasked with developing a young QB if the Falcons go that route in the draft.
- Baltimore Ravens: Jesse Minter steps up from defensive coordinator with the Chargers to take over in Baltimore. He’s got big shoes to fill, replacing a Harbaugh in a city where defense is part of the franchise DNA.
- Miami Dolphins: Jeff Hafley, formerly the Packers’ defensive coordinator, is now in charge in South Florida. His defensive background could help balance a team that’s been offense-heavy in recent seasons.
- New York Giants: John Harbaugh returns to the head coaching ranks, this time with the Giants. After years leading the Ravens, he brings a championship pedigree and a no-nonsense approach to a franchise in need of stability.
- Pittsburgh Steelers: Mike McCarthy takes over in Pittsburgh after stints with the Packers and Cowboys. He’s a proven winner, but expectations will be sky-high in a city where anything less than playoff success doesn’t cut it.
- Tennessee Titans: Robert Saleh, fresh off his time as the 49ers’ defensive coordinator, now leads the Titans. Known for his energy and leadership, he inherits a roster in transition.
Still Open: Four Head Coaching Jobs Remain
While several franchises have made their moves, four teams are still searching for the right leader to guide their next chapter.
- Arizona Cardinals 2025 Record: 3-14 (last in NFC West) Last Playoff Appearance: 2021 Draft Position: No. 3 overall The Cardinals are in full rebuild mode. With a high draft pick and a fresh start at head coach, the next hire will be tasked with reshaping the culture and finding a long-term answer at quarterback.
- Buffalo Bills 2025 Record: 12-5 (second in AFC East) Last Playoff Appearance: 2025 Draft Position: No. 26 overall Unlike the other openings, Buffalo isn’t starting from scratch. This is a team built to win now.
The next coach will inherit a playoff-caliber roster and a superstar quarterback-but also the pressure that comes with high expectations.
- Cleveland Browns 2025 Record: 5-12 (last in AFC North) Last Playoff Appearance: 2023 Draft Position: No. 6 overall The Browns are once again at a crossroads. After moving on from Stefanski, they’ll be looking for a coach who can bring consistency to a franchise that’s been anything but.
- Las Vegas Raiders 2025 Record: 3-14 (last in AFC West) Last Playoff Appearance: 2021 Draft Position: No. 1 overall With the top pick in the draft and a clean slate at head coach, the Raiders have a rare opportunity to reset their identity. The next hire will likely be tied to whoever they select at No. 1-making this one of the most high-stakes decisions in the league.
As the coaching carousel continues to spin, each decision carries weight-not just for the teams involved, but for the entire league landscape. With Rivers stepping aside and several big names still in play, the next few weeks promise to shape the NFL’s future in a big way.