After a tough overtime defeat to the Denver Broncos during the divisional round of the playoffs back in January, the Buffalo Bills found themselves a step away from their long-awaited Super Bowl title.
While the Broncos geared up for the AFC Championship, the Bills shifted their focus to the offseason. Soon, team owner Terry Pegula expressed that he felt the Bills had hit what he called the “playoff wall” under head coach Sean McDermott, leading to a decision for change.
McDermott’s nine-year run in Buffalo concluded that January, ushering in the search for a new head coach. Notably, quarterback Josh Allen was involved in the decision-making process regarding candidates.
In discussions with Fox News Digital, Allen mentioned being part of candidate reviews and attending interviews during the hiring process. “That was different,” he said. “I didn’t have much time to reflect on past events before moving onto the next steps… I did my best to assist, though it wasn’t ultimately my call. But I got to share some ideas that perhaps hadn’t been considered from a player’s view. It was a unique experience.”
Allen expressed gratitude towards Pegula and general manager Brandon Beane for including him in the process. After evaluating multiple candidates, the Bills decided to promote Joe Brady, their offensive coordinator, to head coach. This decision, however, sparked some criticism, given that his tenure coincided with various disappointing playoff exits. Brady evolved from quarterbacks coach to interim offensive coordinator and then full-time coordinator.
In fact, Buffalo has seen postseason eliminations in the divisional round three times in the last four seasons.
Brady’s ascension to the head coaching role doesn’t seem to signal extreme changes, at least for Allen. He believes their existing rapport should make for a seamless transition, despite the increased responsibilities for Brady.
“It feels quite similar; it’s very genuine,” Allen commented. “Joe is one of the most authentic individuals you’ll meet. But now he’s also focused on the defense, which is a new angle we didn’t see before. When I throw an interception, he’s actually cheering for the defense since they made a play.”
Allen noted how exciting it is to see Brady take ownership of the defensive strategy and work alongside a quality staff. He expressed optimism for the upcoming season.
Beane remarked that while the Bills weren’t strictly looking for an offensive-minded coach, Brady’s experience heavily tilted toward offense. Notably, Brady was the first candidate interviewed for the role.
For those making decisions for the Bills, Brady’s appeal extended beyond his offensive background. Beane pointed out that much of a head coach’s job entails aligning the team’s vision with that of management.
In the wake of Brady’s interim coordinator role during the 2023 season, other offensive players, including wide receiver Khalil Shakir, heaped praise on him after his promotion. Shakir voiced his appreciation, saying how much he valued Brady’s belief in him and the positive impact he had on his career.
Tight end Dawson Knox also conveyed his respect, commending Brady’s qualities as both a coordinator and a person.
In the context of the team, Allen recently clinched the NFL MVP title in 2024, leading the Bills past the wild-card round with a memorable rushing touchdown against the Jacksonville Jaguars. He ended the 2025 regular season with a solid tally of 25 touchdown passes.
On a personal note, Allen and his wife, Hailee Steinfeld, welcomed their first child in April. Steinfeld shared her joy in a Substack post titled “Special Delivery,” expressing gratitude for the new addition to their family.
