Buffalo Bills Promote OC Joe Brady to Head Coach

The Bills look to continue their offensive success under new leadership.

Jan. 27, 2026 at 5:07pm

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The Buffalo Bills have fired head coach Sean McDermott and promoted offensive coordinator Joe Brady to be the team's new head coach. Brady was a highly sought-after candidate, having interviewed for head coaching positions with the Baltimore Ravens, Miami Dolphins, and Las Vegas Raiders. The Bills are hoping Brady can build on the team's recent offensive success and lead them to a deep playoff run.

Why it matters

The Bills have been one of the top offenses in the NFL in recent years, led by quarterback Josh Allen. Promoting from within allows for continuity in the offensive scheme, which should benefit Allen and the rest of the offensive unit. However, head coaching hires from within an organization don't always work out, so there is some risk involved.

The details

The Bills decided to part ways with head coach Sean McDermott after the team's latest playoff exit. Offensive coordinator Joe Brady was quickly identified as the top candidate to replace him. Brady had already interviewed for head coaching jobs with the Ravens, Dolphins, and Raiders, showcasing his strong reputation around the league. The Bills are hoping Brady's work with the offense, including developing Allen into an MVP-caliber quarterback, will translate to success as a head coach.

  • On January 27, 2026, the Buffalo Bills announced they were firing head coach Sean McDermott.
  • Also on January 27, 2026, the Bills promoted offensive coordinator Joe Brady to be the team's new head coach.

The players

Joe Brady

The new head coach of the Buffalo Bills, previously serving as the team's offensive coordinator. Brady is considered a rising star in the coaching ranks and was a highly sought-after candidate for other head coaching jobs.

Sean McDermott

The former head coach of the Buffalo Bills, who was fired after the team's latest playoff exit.

Josh Allen

The star quarterback of the Buffalo Bills, who has developed into an MVP-caliber player under the team's previous offensive coaching staff.

Brandon Beane

The general manager of the Buffalo Bills, who made the decision to promote Joe Brady to head coach.

Albert Breer

A senior NFL reporter who commented on the Bills' hiring of Joe Brady as head coach.

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What they’re saying

“A couple keys in the Bills' hire of Joe Brady—there was a HC as CEO piece of every candidate's interview with Buffalo, Brady hit a home run on that. And Brady's promotion allows for scheme continuity, and easy alignment with GM Brandon Beane (who made this call), and the scouts.”

— Albert Breer, Senior NFL Reporter (Touchdown Wire)

What’s next

The Bills will now focus on filling out the rest of their coaching staff, with the offensive line coach and special teams coordinator positions needing to be filled.

The takeaway

The Bills are betting on continuity and offensive success by promoting Joe Brady to head coach. If Brady can build on the team's recent offensive prowess and lead them to a deep playoff run, it could be a savvy move. However, head coaching hires from within don't always work out, so there is some risk involved.