Orchard Park, New York, January 27, 2026
Former NFL quarterback Philip Rivers has withdrawn his name from consideration for the Buffalo Bills’ head-coaching position, following an interview with the team. Rivers, who has no previous NFL coaching experience, was seen as a viable candidate due to his offensive knowledge and connections within the league. His decision marks a significant moment in the Bills’ ongoing search for a new head coach after the dismissal of Sean McDermott. Other candidates are still in the running as the team looks to fill the coaching vacancy.
Orchard Park, New York
Former NFL quarterback Philip Rivers has withdrawn his name from consideration for the Buffalo Bills’ head-coaching position, according to sources familiar with the decision. The 44-year-old Rivers, who returned to the NFL in December 2025 to play three games for the Indianapolis Colts, interviewed with the Bills on January 23, 2026. However, he has decided not to pursue the role further. The Bills initiated their coaching search on January 21, 2026, following the dismissal of Sean McDermott after a nine-year tenure.
Despite lacking prior NFL coaching experience, Rivers was considered a compelling candidate due to his extensive offensive knowledge and connections within the league. Between his NFL stints, he spent five years coaching a high school team in Alabama. Additionally, Rivers has a mentoring relationship with Bills quarterback Josh Allen, with whom he shares the same agent.
Rivers’ decision leaves the Bills to continue their search for a new head coach. The team has already interviewed several candidates, including Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski and Denver Broncos pass game coordinator Davis Webb. Webb, a former quarterback who spent three of his seven NFL seasons with the Bills, is scheduled for an interview on January 26, 2026. The Bills have not disclosed a definitive timeline for their coaching search or the number of candidates they plan to interview.
Key Features of the Buffalo Bills’ Head-Coaching Search
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Coaching Search Initiation | January 21, 2026, following the dismissal of Sean McDermott after a nine-year tenure. |
| Philip Rivers’ Interview | January 23, 2026; Rivers withdrew from consideration after the interview. |
| Other Interviewed Candidates | Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski and Denver Broncos pass game coordinator Davis Webb. |
| Upcoming Interview | Davis Webb is scheduled for an interview on January 26, 2026. |
| Coaching Search Timeline | The Bills have not disclosed a definitive timeline or the number of candidates they plan to interview. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Who is Philip Rivers?
Philip Rivers is a 44-year-old former NFL quarterback who returned to the league in December 2025 to play three games for the Indianapolis Colts. Prior to his return, he spent 18 seasons in the NFL, primarily with the San Diego/Los Angeles Chargers, and later with the Indianapolis Colts. Between his NFL stints, Rivers spent five years coaching a high school team in Alabama.
Why did Philip Rivers withdraw from the Buffalo Bills’ head-coaching search?
Philip Rivers withdrew his name from consideration for the Buffalo Bills’ head-coaching position after interviewing with the team on January 23, 2026. The specific reasons for his decision have not been publicly disclosed.
Who are the other candidates for the Buffalo Bills’ head-coaching position?
Other candidates for the Buffalo Bills’ head-coaching position include Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski and Denver Broncos pass game coordinator Davis Webb. Webb is scheduled for an interview on January 26, 2026. The Bills have not disclosed a definitive timeline for their coaching search or the number of candidates they plan to interview.
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