The Buffalo Bills are wasting no time in their search for a new head coach, and one familiar name is already in the mix: Brian Daboll. The former New York Giants head coach is reportedly set to interview for the vacancy, leading a six-man shortlist as the organization looks to reset after parting ways with Sean McDermott.
Daboll’s time in New York didn’t end the way anyone hoped. Over two and a half seasons, he posted a 20-40-1 record and exited amid mounting frustration from fans and the front office. But despite the rocky tenure, Daboll’s offensive acumen remains well-respected around the league - and especially in Buffalo.
From 2018 to 2021, Daboll served as the Bills’ offensive coordinator, playing a pivotal role in the early development of Josh Allen. That partnership helped elevate Allen into one of the league’s premier quarterbacks, and the two have reportedly kept a strong relationship since Daboll left to take the Giants job. That connection could prove key as the Bills weigh their options in what is considered one of the most attractive openings in the NFL.
The timing of the Bills’ head coaching vacancy is notable. The team made the bold decision to fire McDermott following a playoff loss to the Denver Broncos - a move that sent shockwaves through the league.
Given that the Chiefs, Ravens, and Bengals all missed the postseason, the path to the Super Bowl looked as open as it’s ever been for Buffalo. Instead, the team fell short, and Allen, visibly emotional in his postgame press conference, was left to process another missed opportunity.
Now, the Bills are focused on finding the right leader to get them over the hump - and Daboll is a compelling candidate. Beyond his history with Allen, he brings a deep offensive background and familiarity with the organization. And with the team set to open a new stadium in 2026, the next head coach will have the opportunity to lead a Super Bowl-caliber roster into a new era.
Daboll has also been linked to offensive coordinator positions with the Chargers and Eagles, though the Chargers appear to be leaning toward Mike McDaniel. Still, a return to Buffalo - this time as head coach - would mark a significant turnaround after a turbulent stint in New York.
That chapter ended with more than just losses. Daboll’s final game with the Giants saw the team surrender a 10-point lead in the final minutes against the Bears.
Over his last two seasons, the Giants went 11-33. There were also some eyebrow-raising moments, including a strange incident in which Daboll entered the team’s medical tent during a game while quarterback Jaxson Dart was being evaluated for a concussion.
The move resulted in a $100,000 fine for Daboll and a $250,000 fine for the team.
Despite those missteps, the Bills clearly see value in Daboll’s experience and his past success with Allen. But he’s not the only name in the mix.
Current Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady is also under consideration. He took over play-calling duties midseason and helped stabilize the offense, earning praise for his adaptability and rapport with Allen.
Anthony Lynn, now with the Washington Commanders as a run game coordinator, is another candidate. Lynn brings head coaching experience from his time with the Chargers, where he posted a 33-31 record from 2017 to 2020.
Defensive minds are also in the conversation. Lou Anarumo, currently the defensive coordinator for the Colts, led a unit that started the 2025 season strong before faltering down the stretch, largely due to injuries - including a season-ending Achilles tear to quarterback Daniel Jones.
Anthony Weaver, the Dolphins’ defensive coordinator, and Grant Udinski, offensive coordinator for the Jaguars, round out the shortlist. Both are rising names in coaching circles and could represent a bold, forward-thinking direction for the Bills.
At this point, Buffalo’s coaching search is wide open, but the stakes couldn’t be higher. With a franchise quarterback in place, a new stadium on the horizon, and a roster built to contend, the Bills are looking for a leader who can deliver what’s eluded them for decades: a Super Bowl title. Whether that’s Brian Daboll or someone else, the next move will shape the future of one of the NFL’s most passionate franchises.