The Buffalo Bills are casting a wide net in their search for a new head coach, and one of the more intriguing names on their interview list is former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel. According to multiple sources, McDaniel is set to meet with the Bills’ front office today as the team continues its hunt for the right leader to guide them into the next chapter.
McDaniel, 42, wrapped up a four-year stint in Miami with a 35-35 record. While his time with the Dolphins had its moments, his teams struggled mightily against the Bills - going just 2-7 over that span, including a narrow 34-31 playoff loss in 2022.
But despite the lopsided record, the McDaniel-vs.-McDermott matchups gave us some memorable AFC East battles. Now, with Sean McDermott out, McDaniel is in the mix to take over the very team that gave him so much trouble.
It’s a twist that feels straight out of a football drama - the guy who couldn’t beat them might now be leading them.
If things don’t pan out in Buffalo, McDaniel reportedly has another option lined up: offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers, where he’d be paired with quarterback Justin Herbert. That pairing would certainly raise eyebrows - and expectations.
McDaniel isn’t the only candidate the Bills are considering. On Saturday, Buffalo is also scheduled to meet with Anthony Weaver, who most recently served as the Dolphins’ defensive coordinator.
Weaver, 45, brings a wealth of NFL coaching experience, including stints with the Ravens, Texans, Browns, and even a previous run with the Bills back in 2013. He got his start in the league as an assistant defensive line coach with the Jets in 2012 and has steadily climbed the coaching ladder since.
Also on the docket for Saturday: Washington Commanders run-game coordinator Anthony Lynn, a veteran coach with deep ties across the league. And the Bills aren’t stopping there - Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski is expected to interview on Sunday, adding another offensive-minded candidate to the mix.
One late addition to the process has raised some eyebrows: former Chargers quarterback Philip Rivers. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Rivers is now in the conversation, though it remains to be seen whether that’s a serious candidacy or more of an exploratory discussion.
What’s clear is that Buffalo is taking a comprehensive approach to this hire. They’re not just looking for a scheme guy - they want a leader who can maximize Josh Allen’s prime and finally push this team over the postseason hump. Whether that’s McDaniel, Weaver, Lynn, Udinski, or someone else entirely, the Bills are leaving no stone unturned.
The decision to part ways with McDermott was bold, and now the pressure is on to find the right successor. McDaniel brings offensive innovation and head coaching experience, but his mixed results in Miami - particularly within the division - raise fair questions.
Would a fresh start in Buffalo, with a different quarterback and organizational structure, unlock a new level of success? That’s the gamble the Bills have to weigh.
One thing’s for sure: this coaching search is shaping up to be one of the most fascinating storylines of the offseason.