The Buffalo Bills coaching search has taken a fascinating and unexpected turn. According to NFL Network insider Ian Rapoport, the Bills are expected to interview Denver Broncos quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator Davis Webb for their vacant head coaching position. This development comes as the organization looks to move in a new direction following the departure of long-time head coach Sean McDermott.
A Familiar Face Returns to Orchard Park
Davis Webb is no stranger to the Buffalo community. A former quarterback who spent three seasons with the Bills from 2019 to 2021, Webb was highly regarded in the locker room for his football IQ and leadership, despite serving primarily as a backup. His transition from player to coach has been nothing short of meteoric, and his return to Buffalo in a head-coaching capacity represents a significant full-circle moment for the franchise.
After retiring from playing, Webb joined the Denver Broncos coaching staff in 2023. During his tenure in Denver, he quickly rose through the ranks, eventually taking on the dual role of quarterbacks coach and passing game coordinator. His work with rookie sensation Bo Nix has been particularly noteworthy; under Webb's guidance, Nix set multiple franchise rookie records during the 2024 season, helping the Broncos offense rank in the top 10 for passing touchdowns and big-play completions.
The State of the Buffalo Bills Coaching Search
The search for McDermott's successor has been wide-ranging. Earlier on Monday, the Bills' search hit a snag when legendary quarterback Philip Rivers reportedly withdrew from consideration for the role. This followed a series of interviews with high-profile candidates, including current Bills offensive coordinator Joe Brady and former Bills OC Brian Daboll.
General Manager Brandon Beane, who was recently promoted to President of Football Operations, is overseeing a search that appears to prioritize offensive innovation and quarterback development. With star quarterback Josh Allen entering a critical phase of his career, the team is looking for a leader who can maximize the offense's potential while stabilizing a defense that struggled in the divisional round of the playoffs.
Why Davis Webb is a Serious Candidate
While Webb's age—just 31 years old—might give some fans pause, his rapid ascent in the coaching world mirrors that of other young offensive minds like Sean McVay and Mike McDaniel. Insiders suggest that Webb’s deep understanding of the Bills' culture and his existing relationship with Josh Allen make him a unique candidate who could provide a seamless transition.
- Quarterback Development: Proven success in mentoring young talent, most recently Bo Nix in Denver.
- Institutional Knowledge: Spent years in the Bills' system, understanding the expectations of the Buffalo fanbase and ownership.
- Offensive Vision: Instrumental in Denver's high-flying passing attack that prioritized explosive plays and efficiency.
Competition and Next Steps
The Bills are not the only team looking for a new leader. The 2026 coaching carousel is in full swing, with major moves already happening across the league. The Atlanta Falcons recently hired Kevin Stefanski, while the New York Giants secured John Harbaugh. In Buffalo, the pressure is on to find a coach who can finally lead the team past the divisional round hurdle that has plagued them for years.
In addition to Webb, the Bills are expected to continue their due diligence with other candidates. Reports indicate they have requested interviews with several defensive minds, including Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver and Commanders run game coordinator Anthony Lynn. However, the news of Webb’s interview suggests that Beane and the Bills' brass are seriously considering a bold, youth-oriented shift for the 2026 season.
As the Buffalo Bills coaching search intensifies, the addition of Davis Webb to the list of finalists signals that the organization is willing to think outside the box to find the right leader for the next era of Bills football.
Sources & Original Reporting
