According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Buffalo’s interview request comes as Scheelhaase is also meeting with the Cleveland Browns for their head coaching job. Scheelhaase is currently in the midst of in-person talks with Cleveland, with Buffalo positioned on deck.
NFL rules prevented the Bills from interviewing Scheelhaase during championship weekend, when the Rams were competing in the NFC Championship. The scheduling nuance helps explain why Buffalo waited until this week to engage with him.
Scheelhaase is 35 years old and in his second NFL coaching season, bringing a strong college résumé to the table. He spent six years at Iowa State (2018-2023) in various roles, including offensive coordinator in 2022.
His relatively limited NFL head coaching experience is a consideration for a team viewed as a Super Bowl contender that typically aims to win now. Cleveland’s in-person engagement signals strong interest, while Buffalo’s pursuit could influence the Browns’ timetable.
As Buffalo evaluates candidates, the Monday interview could serve to gauge Scheelhaase’s fit and determine whether to pursue a second round of conversations. The Bills’ coaching search remains active as they assess how to align with a high-expectation, win-now franchise.