The Buffalo Bills made one thing unmistakably clear after another disappointing early playoff exit in 2025: simply reaching the postseason is no longer enough.
Following nine strong regular-season campaigns but repeated postseason heartbreak, the Bills officially closed the book on one of the most successful eras in franchise history by firing head coach Sean McDermott. While McDermott restored credibility and consistency in Buffalo, the absence of a Super Bowl appearance ultimately proved to be the final straw.
On Tuesday, the Bills moved quickly to identify their next leader, reportedly promoting offensive coordinator Joe Brady to head coach, according to multiple reports. NFL Networkโs Ian Rapoport indicated that the two sides have already agreed to terms, signaling the franchiseโs confidence in an internal hire.
Brady is no stranger to the organization. The 36-year-old joined the Bills in 2022 as quarterbacks coach after serving two seasons as offensive coordinator for the Carolina Panthers. During Bradyโs first two years in Buffalo, Josh Allen threw for more than 4,000 yards each season and accounted for 64 total passing touchdowns, further cementing his status as one of the leagueโs elite quarterbacks.
Bradyโs influence grew in 2023 when he was elevated to interim offensive coordinator following Ken Dorseyโs dismissal. The offense showed renewed balance and creativity, earning Brady the full-time role the following season. His work did not go unnoticed around the league, as he was named a finalist for the NFLโs Assistant Coach of the Year award.
Now, Brady steps into a role defined by towering expectations.
Under McDermott, the Bills reached the playoffs in eight of nine seasons, winning at least one postseason game in six of those appearances. Buffalo advanced to the AFC Championship Game twice, only to be stopped both times by Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs. While those accomplishments marked a golden era for the franchise, they also created an unforgiving benchmark for Brady to meet โ and surpass.
For Brady, success will be measured not in playoff berths, but in deep postseason runs and, ultimately, a Super Bowl appearance. Anything less risks being viewed as more of the same, regardless of regular-season dominance.
That pressure comes with the territory when Josh Allen is your quarterback.
Allenโs presence made Buffalo one of the most attractive head-coaching destinations this offseason. The 29-year-old is firmly entrenched among the NFLโs elite, earning multiple Pro Bowl selections and remaining a constant MVP candidate. Signed through the 2030 season, Allen gives the Bills a rare combination of stability, star power, and championship potential at the most important position in sports.
The only missing piece on Allenโs rรฉsumรฉ is a Super Bowl ring.
The Bills believe Brady is the coach who can finally deliver it. His familiarity with Allen, modern offensive approach, and ability to adapt under pressure played a major role in the organizationโs decision. While asking a first-time head coach to immediately surpass McDermottโs postseason success may be unfair, that is the reality in Buffalo.
The window is open. The quarterback is in his prime. Now, the expectations are unmistakable.
