AFC East Notebook: Bills’ Coaching Search, Dolphins’ Quarterback Plan, and Patriots’ Confidence in Maye
As the NFL coaching carousel spins and playoff pressure mounts, the AFC East is buzzing with big decisions and bigger expectations. From Buffalo’s high-profile head coaching vacancy to Miami’s long-term quarterback strategy and New England’s rookie QB preparing for the biggest game of his young career, there’s no shortage of storylines. Let’s break it all down.
Buffalo Bills: A Premier Opportunity on the Market
The Bills are in the market for a new head coach, and according to team owner Terry Pegula, the interest is already pouring in. Pegula made it clear that Buffalo’s opening is one of the most attractive in the league right now - and it’s easy to see why. With a playoff-caliber roster and a franchise quarterback in place, this isn’t a rebuild; it’s a reload.
“There’s a lot of interest,” Pegula said. “A lot of people want to look at taking this job.”
And while expectations in Buffalo are always high - especially with recent postseason appearances - Pegula isn’t throwing around any “Super Bowl or bust” ultimatums. Instead, he’s focused on finding the right fit to lead the team forward.
“We’re making a change,” he said. “And you know, it’s ‘do your best job.’”
Translation: The bar is high, but the new coach will have room to build without unrealistic pressure right out of the gate. Buffalo’s next hire won’t just be inheriting a talented team - they’ll be stepping into a passionate football city that’s hungry for the next step.
Miami Dolphins: Building the Right Way Around the Quarterback
In Miami, the focus is squarely on the quarterback position - not just who will play it, but how the team is being built around it. New general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan made it clear: the Dolphins aren’t rushing into a decision, and they’re not sacrificing long-term stability for a quick fix.
“We’re not going to do it in an irresponsible manner,” Sullivan said. “We’ve all seen teams get a really good quarterback, but he can’t stay healthy or doesn’t have anyone to throw to.”
That’s the blueprint Sullivan is trying to avoid. Whether the future under center is Tua Tagovailoa, Quinn Ewers, or someone not even on the roster yet, the plan is to build a foundation that can support whoever takes the reins.
Sullivan’s experience in Green Bay - where Aaron Rodgers was drafted while Brett Favre was still playing at a high level - is shaping his philosophy in Miami.
“If you can help it, don’t wait until you don’t have a quarterback to find one,” he said.
That means the Dolphins will be active in the quarterback market, whether through the draft or elsewhere. Sullivan emphasized that Miami will look to invest in the position every year if possible. It’s all about creating depth, competition, and eventually, finding their guy.
“If you hit on a guy, great,” Sullivan added. “If you hit on two, you have trade value.”
Meanwhile, new head coach Jeff Hafley is already putting his stamp on the team, starting with the defense. Hafley confirmed he’ll be calling plays himself - a hands-on approach that speaks to his passion and vision for that side of the ball.
“It really connects me with that group,” Hafley said. “It’s something I love to do.”
He’s modeling his approach after coaches like Kyle Shanahan and Matt LaFleur, blending head-coaching responsibilities with direct involvement on defense. For a team that’s looking to toughen up on that side of the ball, Hafley’s intensity and attention to detail could be a game-changer.
New England Patriots: Maye Staying the Course Ahead of AFC Title Clash
The Patriots are one win away from the Super Bowl, and rookie quarterback Drake Maye is keeping things simple heading into the AFC Championship Game against a stingy Broncos defense.
“I don’t think you try to change it,” Maye said. “Trying to get the ball out of my hand and just being cognizant of the edge rushers… that’s the No. 1 thing.”
Maye tossed a pick in last week’s win over the Chargers, but he’s not letting it shake his confidence. His focus this week? Protect the football and trust the offensive line - a group that’s been rock-solid all season.
“My job is to have a timer in my head,” Maye said. “Those guys have done a great job all year. I have lots of trust in those guys up front.”
That trust is mutual. Veteran wideout Stefon Diggs had high praise for his young quarterback, calling out Maye’s poise and decision-making in high-pressure moments.
“He’s making the right reads. He’s making the right throws,” Diggs said. “I’ll take our leader any day.”
Diggs highlighted Maye’s consistency - not just in performance, but in demeanor. In a playoff environment where emotions run high and every snap matters, Maye’s calm presence is setting the tone for the entire offense.
“He’s a young quarterback,” Diggs added. “But he has had a maturation process second to none in my opinion.”
Final Thoughts
In Buffalo, a coaching search is underway with a roster that’s ready to win now. In Miami, a methodical rebuild is being constructed around the most important position in football. And in New England, a rookie quarterback is showing the kind of leadership that has veterans rallying behind him on the doorstep of the Super Bowl.
The AFC East is undergoing a transformation - some teams retooling, others reloading - but one thing’s for sure: this division isn’t taking a back seat to anybody.