The Buffalo Bills are staying in-house with their next head coach - and that decision speaks volumes about where this franchise is headed.
Joe Brady, who’s been calling plays as Buffalo’s offensive coordinator since 2023, is officially taking over as head coach. And if you’re Josh Allen, this is probably the best-case scenario.
Brady isn’t just a familiar face - he’s someone Allen trusts, respects, and credits for helping elevate his game. In a league where quarterback stability is everything, the Bills are doubling down on continuity.
Let’s unpack what this move means for Allen, the offense, and the future of Buffalo football.
Allen + Brady: A Partnership That’s Just Getting Started
Make no mistake - this hire was all about maximizing Josh Allen’s prime. The Bills know they have a top-tier quarterback, and they’re doing everything they can to keep him comfortable, confident, and in control. Promoting Brady isn’t just about X’s and O’s; it’s about chemistry, trust, and a shared vision for what this offense can be.
Brady has been instrumental in reshaping Buffalo’s offensive identity. Since taking over play-calling duties in 2023, the Bills have ranked 10th and 4th in total yards per game over the last two seasons.
That’s not just solid - that’s elite. And the numbers don’t tell the whole story.
Brady’s system has pushed Allen to refine his mechanics, improve his decision-making, and become a more complete quarterback.
When Brady was named full-time OC in 2024, Allen didn’t hold back: “It’s not the same mundane things we’ve been doing for the last six years… it’s forcing me to be a better quarterback.” That’s the kind of accountability and growth you want from your franchise cornerstone - and it’s clear Brady knows how to challenge Allen without stifling him.
Their dynamic has been built on mutual respect. Brady has consistently encouraged Allen to self-scout and evolve, and Allen has embraced that process.
It’s telling that when Brady started drawing interest for head coaching jobs elsewhere, Allen joked that teams should “stay away from him.” Now, Allen gets exactly what he wanted - his guy, running the show.
Offensive Continuity, Defensive Questions
The Bills’ offense isn’t broken - far from it. They’ve been one of the league’s most dangerous units under Brady, and that continuity is a major win heading into 2026. Expect Brady to keep calling plays, which should allow Allen and the offense to hit the ground running next season.
But let’s be honest: offense hasn’t been the problem for Buffalo when the playoffs roll around. It’s the defense that’s consistently let them down. And now, one of Brady’s most important tasks as head coach will be hiring the right defensive coordinator - someone who can fix the side of the ball that’s kept this team from making a Super Bowl run.
That decision looms large. Brady’s offensive acumen is well-established, but this will be his first time overseeing the full operation. Getting the right partner on defense could be the difference between another early playoff exit and finally breaking through.
The Daboll Domino
Brian Daboll was widely seen as the other top candidate for the Bills’ job - and for good reason. He helped develop Allen into a star during his first stint in Buffalo and has head coaching experience with the Giants. But with the Bills opting for internal continuity, Daboll quickly found a new home.
He’s now set to become the offensive coordinator for the Tennessee Titans, where he’ll work with promising young quarterback Cam Ward. Daboll also interviewed twice for the Raiders’ head coaching vacancy, but when that door didn’t open, Tennessee moved fast.
It’s a solid landing spot for Daboll, who remains one of the most respected offensive minds in the league. And it underscores how competitive the coaching carousel has been this offseason - especially for teams looking to develop young quarterbacks.
Beane’s Bet - and the Pressure That Comes With It
This wasn’t just a coaching hire - it was a franchise-defining decision. And for GM Brandon Beane, now elevated to President of Football Operations, the stakes couldn’t be higher.
Firing Sean McDermott - a coach who brought consistent success and helped reshape the Bills’ culture - was a bold move. Promoting Brady, rather than bringing in an external candidate, adds another layer of risk. It’s a bet on stability, chemistry, and the belief that this core group is still good enough to win it all.
But here’s the reality: the window is open now. And it won’t stay open forever.
Buffalo has been stuck in “Super Bowl or bust” mode for a few years, and every season that ends short of that goal adds more pressure. By going with Brady, Beane is banking on a smoother transition and a more empowered Allen.
But he’s also putting himself in the spotlight. If this move doesn’t lead to a breakthrough - especially in the postseason - the scrutiny will only intensify.
This offseason will be pivotal. The Bills need to find a true No. 1 wide receiver, solidify the defense, and make sure Brady is surrounded with the right staff to support him in his first year as head coach. The margin for error is shrinking.
Final Thoughts
Joe Brady’s promotion isn’t flashy - but it’s calculated. It’s a move that prioritizes continuity, trusts in the existing offensive infrastructure, and doubles down on the Allen-Brady partnership that’s already shown serious promise.
Now, the challenge is clear: take the next step. For Allen, for Brady, and for a Bills organization that’s been knocking on the door for years, 2026 has to be about finishing the job.
The pieces are in place. The quarterback is in his prime.
And now, the coach is someone he believes in. No more excuses - it’s time for Buffalo to deliver.