Brady previously progressed from quarterbacks coach to offensive coordinator in Buffalo, and in 2025 he steered an offense that went 13-4, saw 13 players score receiving touchdowns, and reached the AFC Championship Game. Under Brady, Josh Allen won the 2024 NFL MVP, underscoring the impact of his system and collaboration with the franchise’s star signal-caller.
“Guess what Joe Brady? The expectation next year isn’t gonna be to get to the playoffs, and it’s not gonna be to win a game in the playoffs. It’s going to be to win the Super Bowl,” Fitzpatrick said on Fitz & Whit, highlighting the heightened pressure Brady inherits in Buffalo. The remark reflects the broader belief within the fanbase and league observers that a Lombardi is the ultimate benchmark.
ESPN’s Peter Schrager has noted that Allen had input in the coaching hire, while owner Terry Pegula and general manager Brandon Beane have shown strong support for Brady as the Bills push toward sustained contention. Buffalo’s recent evolution—driving eight playoff appearances since McDermott’s arrival in 2017—remains a backdrop as the team seeks its first Super Bowl title since the 1990s.
Brady has a five-year contract and now faces the critical task of installing a defensive staff capable of carrying the team. ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported Jim Leonhard is a leading candidate to become Buffalo’s defensive coordinator, a choice that would bring experience and familiarity with multiple NFL defensive schemes.
Leonhard, a former Bills safety who played for several teams during his career, has been with the Broncos since 2024 as the defensive backs coach and pass game coordinator, rising to assistant head coach in 2025. Last season, the Broncos led the league in sacks (68) and ranked highly in total defense and points allowed, suggesting he could stabilize Buffalo’s defense alongside Brady’s offense.
Beyond the DC hire, Buffalo also needs a new special teams coordinator after Chris Tabor left for the Miami Dolphins. Beane’s elevation to president of football operations signals ownership’s ongoing commitment to Brady, but the Bills’ path back to the Super Bowl remains contingent on staff decisions and on sustaining impact from a growing core around Josh Allen.
As Buffalo maps out a high-stakes offseason, the franchise faces the dual challenge of maintaining Brady’s offensive momentum and building a cohesive, championship-ready defense. With a five-year contract and substantial expectations, the Bills’ 2026 season will test Brady’s leadership and the franchise’s ability to deliver a long-awaited Super Bowl run.
