After the unexpected dismissal of Buffalo Bills’ head coach Sean McDermott, there’s already chatter about who will step into the role in Western New York.
One former coach of the Bills has a clear idea about the right candidate. Rex Ryan, who led the team for two seasons, believes Bill Belichick would be an ideal fit to return to the NFL.
In a segment on ESPN’s “Get Up,” Ryan suggested, “You need a coach who has a proven record of reaching the Super Bowl.” In his view, Belichick is the only suitable choice to succeed McDermott.
Ryan knows Belichick well from his time coaching the Bills and the New York Jets within the AFC East. Ryan also mentioned that Brian Daboll, often cited as a contender for the coaching position, should revert to his previous role as offensive coordinator under Belichick.
However, Belichick has made it clear that he intends to stay in college football, despite having a turbulent first season at the University of North Carolina, where the Tar Heels finished 4-8 overall and 2-6 in the ACC.
Previously, there were rumors about Belichick potentially moving to the New York Giants after Daboll’s midseason firing. Still, he reaffirmed his commitment to Carolina football in a statement: “I genuinely respect and care for the Giants organization.” He spoke highly of the team’s importance in his life and career.
He added, “I’ve been honored to work alongside the Mara family and be part of Coach Parcells’ staff for over a decade. But let me clarify, I have never sought, nor will I pursue, an NFL head coaching role.” His focus is clearly on continuing to improve the Tar Heels and building a program that resonates with fans.
Yet, one can’t help but wonder—would Belichick consider a return to the NFL if it meant coaching 2024 NFL MVP Josh Allen in Buffalo? It’s a tempting opportunity, especially with passionate fans hoping for the franchise’s first Super Bowl.
The Bills will start searching for a new head coach right away, but general manager Brandon Beane will lead the efforts in this regard.
McDermott had positioned the team to compete for the Super Bowl multiple times, yet they’ve struggled against formidable opponents like Patrick Mahomes and the Kansas City Chiefs, losing to them in the AFC Championship Games in 2020 and 2024.
Under McDermott, the Bills made the playoffs for seven consecutive years, finishing with an impressive coaching record of 98-50 from 2017 to 2025.
