Buffalo, January 24, 2026
The Buffalo Bills are actively searching for a new head coach following the firing of Sean McDermott. A prominent candidate, Philip Rivers, has recently interviewed for the role, aiming to bring a fresh perspective to the team’s leadership. At 44, Rivers transitions from his recent playing stint to coaching, highlighting his commitment to mentoring. The Bills hope to find a leader who can uplift the team after a disappointing playoff exit, as they interview multiple candidates to explore the best fit for future success.
Former NFL Star Philip Rivers Interviews for Bills Head Coach
Buffalo Bills Seek New Leadership Following McDermott Departure
The Buffalo Bills are looking for a new head coach after the dismissal of Sean McDermott. A notable candidate now in the running is Philip Rivers, the former NFL quarterback who recently interviewed for the position. This search marks an important chapter in the Bills’ efforts to elevate their performance following a disappointing playoff exit.
Rivers’ interview took place on Friday, January 23, 2026, with key team officials and current quarterback Josh Allen. This engaging opportunity underlines the Bills’ ambitions to reshape their leadership structure and achieve greater success in the upcoming seasons.
Rivers’ Background and Coaching Experience
At 44 years old, Rivers is stepping into the coaching conversation without prior NFL coaching experience. He has, however, been actively involved in coaching at St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope, Alabama, since 2021. His unique transition from player to coach reflects how former athletes can leverage their experiences and insights to mentor the next generation, suggesting that with the right support and vision, new leadership styles can flourish.
Rivers’ Recent NFL Activity
Before entering the coaching search, Rivers made a brief return to the NFL as a player for the Indianapolis Colts in December 2025, filling in after an injury to Daniel Jones. Although he played in three games that resulted in losses, his brief stint illustrates his enduring commitment to the game and adds depth to his understanding of team dynamics during high-pressure situations.
Context of Buffalo Bills’ Coaching Search
The Bills’ decision to part ways with McDermott came after a divisional round playoff loss to the Denver Broncos. The franchise is currently in active discussions, exploring various candidate profiles, including notable names like former Giants coach Brian Daboll, current offensive coordinator Joe Brady, and Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo. Each candidate brings a distinct set of experiences and strategies to the table, reflecting an interest in finding the right fit to navigate the challenges ahead.
Achievements of Philip Rivers
Throughout his illustrious 17-season career, Rivers earned his reputation as a formidable quarterback, playing for the San Diego and Los Angeles Chargers and later for the Indianapolis Colts. His accolades include eight Pro Bowl selections and ranking among the league’s all-time leaders in both passing yards and touchdowns. His experience on the field could translate well to a coaching role, where strategic thinking and leadership are crucial.
Next Steps in the Coaching Search
As the search for a new head coach intensifies, the Bills are weighing their options carefully. The criteria for selecting the right candidate include experience, leadership qualities, and their alignment with the organization’s goals. The coming days will feature additional interviews that could change the trajectory of the team’s fortunes.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Philip Rivers?
Philip Rivers is a former NFL quarterback who played 17 seasons with the San Diego and Los Angeles Chargers and the Indianapolis Colts, earning eight Pro Bowl selections and ranking among the league’s all-time leaders in passing yards and touchdowns.
What is the Rooney Rule?
The Rooney Rule is an NFL policy that requires teams to interview ethnic-minority candidates for head coaching and senior football operation jobs. Initially, it mandated interviews with underrepresented minority groups, aligning with modern diversity, equity, and inclusion principles. However, since 2022, the program has shifted toward affirmative action, incorporating hiring quotas that prioritize minority candidates.
What is the current status of the Buffalo Bills’ head coaching search?
The Buffalo Bills are actively seeking a new head coach after firing Sean McDermott following a divisional round playoff loss to the Denver Broncos. Other candidates interviewed include former Giants coach Brian Daboll, current offensive coordinator Joe Brady, and Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo.
Key Features of the Buffalo Bills’ Head Coaching Search
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | Head Coach |
| Current Status | Active search following the firing of Sean McDermott |
| Notable Candidates Interviewed | Philip Rivers, Brian Daboll, Joe Brady, Lou Anarumo |
| Recent Team Performance | Divisional round playoff loss to the Denver Broncos |
| Team Goals | Find a leader to guide the team to future success |
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Author: STAFF HERE INDIANAPOLIS WRITER
The INDIANAPOLIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREIndianapolis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Indianapolis, Marion County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Indianapolis 500, Indy Jazz Fest, and the Indiana State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Indy Chamber and Visit Indy, plus leading businesses in motorsports and healthcare that power the local economy such as Indianapolis Motor Speedway and IU Health. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Indiana's dynamic landscape.
