The Buffalo Bills are deep into their head coaching search, and one of the most intriguing names in the mix is Grant Udinski - a rising star in coaching circles who, at just 30 years old, could become the youngest head coach in NFL history.
Udinski interviewed in person with the Bills today, per reports, and he’s also a finalist for the Browns’ vacancy. That tells you everything you need to know about how quickly his stock is rising around the league. Despite his youth and relatively short NFL resume, teams are clearly buying into his football IQ, leadership traits, and what he’s already accomplished in a short span.
Let’s take a step back and look at how Udinski got here.
He broke into the NFL with the Panthers in 2020 as an assistant, cutting his teeth during a rebuilding phase in Carolina. In 2022, the Vikings brought him on as an assistant to the head coach and special projects - a role that often signals a team sees long-term potential in a young coach. That belief paid off when Minnesota promoted him to assistant quarterbacks coach in 2024, where he worked closely with the offense and helped develop the passing game.
In 2025, Udinski took over as offensive coordinator in Jacksonville under head coach Liam Coen. The results?
Impressive. The Jaguars finished sixth in the league in scoring, 11th in total yards, and 12th in passing yards.
The run game lagged a bit at 20th, but overall, it was a dynamic unit that could move the ball and put points on the board - and Udinski was pulling the strings.
He’s not the only candidate the Bills are considering, though. Here’s a rundown of where things stand in Buffalo’s search:
- Joe Brady, the Bills’ current offensive coordinator, has interviewed and remains in the mix. He stepped in midseason and helped steady the ship offensively, so he’s a known quantity inside the building.
- Brian Daboll, the former Giants head coach and ex-Bills OC, also interviewed. He’s familiar with the organization and was instrumental in Josh Allen’s early development.
- Anthony Lynn, currently the Commanders’ run game coordinator, brings head coaching experience and a strong background in ground-and-pound football.
- Anthony Weaver, the Dolphins’ defensive coordinator, has also interviewed.
He’s earned respect for his work on that side of the ball and his leadership qualities.
- Lou Anarumo, the Colts’ defensive coordinator, is scheduled to meet with the team.
He’s been a steady hand defensively for years and is known for his game-planning prowess.
- Philip Rivers, yes, that Philip Rivers, interviewed as well.
The former Colts quarterback has been coaching high school football since retiring, and while his name raises eyebrows, his football mind has always been respected.
- Davis Webb, the Broncos’ quarterbacks coach, is another young name to watch.
Like Udinski, he’s viewed as a fast riser.
- Mike McDaniel, the Chargers’ offensive coordinator, was initially in the mix but has since withdrawn from consideration.
It’s a wide-ranging search, and the Bills are clearly casting a broad net - from seasoned coordinators to unproven but promising names like Udinski and Webb. But make no mistake: Udinski’s candidacy is one of the most fascinating. If Buffalo decides to go young and bold, they could be betting on a coach who’s already shown he can scheme with the best and connect with players in a modern locker room.
Stay tuned - this hire could set the tone for the Bills' next chapter.