Sports | Buffalo Bills Promote Joe Brady to Head Coach on 5-Year Deal After Firing Sean McDermott
By Newzvia
Quick Summary
The Buffalo Bills have promoted offensive coordinator Joe Brady to head coach on a five-year contract, replacing Sean McDermott who was fired after another early playoff exit. At 36 years old, Brady becomes the youngest current NFL head coach and the 21st in Bills history. His tenure has elevated the team's offense to elite status, signaling continuity with star quarterback Josh Allen.
Bills Name Joe Brady as New Head Coach
The Buffalo Bills announced on January 27, 2026, the promotion of offensive coordinator Joe Brady to head coach, marking a significant shift in leadership for the franchise. Brady, 36, agreed to a five-year deal, stepping up after the team parted ways with Sean McDermott following a divisional playoff loss to the Denver Broncos.
Background on the Coaching Change
Sean McDermott, who coached the Bills for nine seasons and led them to eight playoff appearances, was fired last week amid ongoing postseason frustrations. The Bills opted for an internal promotion rather than an external hire, prioritizing continuity amid a tight coaching search timeline. General manager Brandon Beane, now promoted to team president, spearheaded the process and selected Brady as the first candidate interviewed.
Brady's Rapid Rise with Buffalo
Brady joined the Bills in 2022 as quarterbacks coach, working closely with star quarterback Josh Allen. He became interim offensive coordinator in late 2023 after Ken Dorsey's dismissal and earned the full-time role for 2024 and 2025. Under his guidance, the Bills' offense ranked among the NFL's elite, with increased rushing efficiency and high run rates in recent seasons.
Brady will continue calling offensive plays, leveraging his strategic expertise to maintain the unit's dominance. His promotion underscores the strong rapport with Allen and other offensive players, who have voiced support for his leadership.
Reasons Behind the In-House Decision
- Continuity and Familiarity: Brady's three years as OC provide seamless transition, avoiding disruptions from outside hires.
- Market Constraints: Postseason timing limited interviews with active playoff teams' assistants; top candidates like John Harbaugh and Kevin Stefanski were unavailable.
- Offensive Focus: Seven of nine interviewed candidates had offensive backgrounds, aligning with Brady's strengths despite Beane's emphasis on CEO-like leadership qualities.
Beane highlighted the need for conflict management and adversity handling beyond play-calling, positioning Brady as ready for the head role.
What's Next for Brady and the Bills
Brady faces immense pressure to deliver a Super Bowl, ending Buffalo's championship drought. Key offseason priorities include staff hires, with Broncos defensive pass coordinator Jim Leonhard eyed for defensive coordinator and internal candidates like Austin Gund for offensive line coach. Josh Allen's involvement in the process adds optimism, but ultimate success rests on postseason breakthroughs.
As preparations for 2026 ramp up, Brady's blend of offensive innovation and organizational knowledge positions the Bills for contention in a competitive AFC.