Bills Promote Joe Brady to Head Coach After Sean McDermott Firing
The Buffalo Bills have promoted offensive coordinator Joe Brady to head coach following the abrupt firing of Sean McDermott. Brady, 36, has been with the Bills since 2022, initially as quarterbacks coach, then interim offensive coordinator in 2023, and officially as offensive coordinator in 2024. The team is finalizing a five-year deal with Brady, who previously served as the Panthers’ offensive coordinator from 2020 to 2021. Brady was the first candidate the Bills interviewed for the head coach position, which was filled swiftly within a week. Brady’s promotion aims to maintain scheme continuity and align with GM Brandon Beane, who made the decision. The Bills are expected to hire at least two new coaches, including potentially a new offensive coordinator, as part of their restructuring. The Bills’ decision comes after a disappointing 2025 season, which ended with an early playoff exit. Under McDermott, the team had reached the playoffs in eight of nine seasons and won six playoff games, including two AFC championships. The franchise now expects Brady to lead the team to a Super Bowl, especially with star quarterback Josh Allen, who has yet to win a Super Bowl despite being one of the league’s top quarterbacks. Brady’s background includes working as the Panthers’ offensive coordinator and having a strong relationship with Allen, who has performed well under his guidance. The Bills conducted extensive interviews with ten candidates, including notable coaches like Brian Daboll and Anthony Lynn, but ultimately chose someone already familiar with the team. The move signifies a high-pressure environment for Brady to succeed quickly, with expectations to replicate the Bills’ past playoff success and finally secure a Super Bowl victory. The team’s ownership and management are betting on Brady’s familiarity and recent success to elevate the franchise.
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