The Buffalo Bills have officially begun the search for their next head coach after parting ways with Sean McDermott on Monday, ending his nine‑season tenure following another disappointing playoff exit. His firing brings the total of total head coaching job openings this offseason to 10, which is tied for the highest number in NFL history.
NFL Rumors: Could Mike McDaniel Stay In The AFC East?
McDermott, who led the Bills to a 98–50 regular‑season record and eight playoff appearances, was dismissed after a 33–30 overtime loss to the Denver Broncos in the AFC Divisional Round.
With McDermott out, several high‑profile candidates have already surfaced, and sportsbooks have released early odds on who might be the next Bills head coach. Here are the lines set forth by the oddsmakers at top sportsbooks:
- Mike McDaniel (+300)
- Mike Tomlin (+350)
- Brian Daboll (+400)
- Joe Brady (+500)
- Brian Flores (+700)
At the top of the odds board is former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel, who was recently let go after four seasons in Miami. Known for his creative offensive schemes and strong rapport with quarterbacks, McDaniel would represent a bold offensive‑first shift for the Bills, centered on maximizing Josh Allen’s unique skill set.
Close behind is Mike Tomlin, the longtime Pittsburgh Steelers coach who was also recently fired in a wave of offseason coaching changes. Tomlin’s reputation as a steady leader with a track record of regular‑season success and playoff experience makes him an attractive candidate for a team seeking structure and discipline.
Daboll, Brady Also In The Running, According To The Odds
Brian Daboll is another compelling name near the top of the list. A former Bills offensive coordinator, Daboll helped develop Allen early in his career and is widely respected throughout the league. Despite being fired by the New York Giants midway through the 2025 season, his familiarity with the Bills organization and past success with Allen make him a logical fit should Buffalo decide to pursue a reunion.
Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady also appears in the mix at +500. Brady has received praise for reshaping Buffalo’s offense this past season, and promoting him could provide continuity, particularly for Allen and the offensive staff.
Defensive veteran Brian Flores rounds out the top-5 at +700. Flores, a seasoned defensive mind with previous head coaching experience, could appeal to Buffalo if the organization prioritizes shoring up its defense heading into 2026.
