McDermott had steered Buffalo to sustained success, including two trips to the conference title game and five AFC East titles. After reaching the AFC Championship last season, the team faced Super Bowl-or-bust expectations this year. The playoff setback came in the Divisional Round against the Denver Broncos, and McDermott was dismissed after nine seasons and 98 wins.
The Bills’ interview slate included former offensive coordinator Brian Daboll, ex-Colts QB Philip Rivers, and fired Dolphins coach Mike McDaniel, in addition to Joe Brady, who was serving as the team’s current OC.
Albert Breer reported that a “head coach as CEO” thread ran through every candidate’s interview with Buffalo, and Brady stood out in that area. He was viewed as a strong choice because the move would deliver scheme continuity and easier alignment with general manager Brandon Beane, who had the final say on the next head coach.
Fans were left with questions about promoting from within versus hiring outside the organization, but the report underscored Brady’s perceived fit for Buffalo’s long-term plan and Beane’s vision for the franchise’s coaching leadership.
Overall, the report portrays Brady’s selection as a strategic decision to balance continuity with fresh top-level leadership, leveraging Brady’s familiarity with the Bills’ system while aligning with Beane’s structural preferences.
