The Buffalo Bills are still in the thick of their head coaching search, and one name keeps surfacing - a familiar face with deep ties to both the organization and its franchise quarterback: Brian Daboll.
Daboll, who previously served as Buffalo’s offensive coordinator, is reportedly in the mix to replace Sean McDermott. His name carries weight in Western New York, and for good reason.
During his time with the Bills, Daboll played a pivotal role in the development of Josh Allen, helping transform the raw, athletic quarterback into one of the league’s elite signal-callers. That partnership not only elevated Allen’s game but also helped turn the Bills into legitimate contenders.
Now, with the head coaching position open, Daboll’s return feels more than just plausible - it feels like a real possibility.
There’s also the front office connection. Daboll has a longstanding relationship with general manager Brandon Beane, which could be a key factor in the hiring process.
In a high-stakes situation like this - especially with the pressure to keep the team’s championship window open - familiarity and trust can go a long way. Beane and Daboll have worked together before, and that shared history might give Daboll a leg up on other candidates.
Of course, it’s not all smooth sailing. Daboll’s most recent stint as head coach of the New York Giants started strong but ended on a rocky note.
He led the Giants to a surprising 9-7-1 record in his first season, even winning a playoff game - a performance that earned him AP Coach of the Year honors. That success built on his previous recognition as the NFL’s Assistant Coach of the Year in 2020, when he was calling plays for the Bills.
But after that high point, things unraveled. The Giants struggled mightily in the seasons that followed, both in the win-loss column and behind the scenes.
Daboll’s tenure ultimately ended with a .336 win percentage and a locker room clouded by dysfunction. That kind of baggage would usually be a red flag for teams looking for a fresh start.
However, Buffalo might be the exception. The Bills know what they’re getting with Daboll - the good and the bad.
More importantly, they know how well he works with Josh Allen. And in today’s NFL, where quarterback-head coach synergy is everything, that bond could be the deciding factor.
Reports have even suggested that Allen is sitting in on interviews with coaching candidates, which underscores just how much sway he holds in this decision.
If Allen gives the green light - and if Beane sees Daboll as the right fit for a second act in Buffalo - it’s not hard to envision Daboll returning to Orchard Park, this time with the top job. The Bills need someone who can steady the ship and maximize the prime years of one of the league’s top quarterbacks. Daboll’s track record with Allen might be exactly what they’re looking for.