The Buffalo Bills have reached an agreement to hire Jim Leonhard as the team's new defensive coordinator, according to Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. The two sides have reportedly agreed to terms to bring the former NFL safety back to Buffalo to lead the defense under head coach Sean McDermott.
Jim Leonhard joins the Bills staff after most recently serving as the defensive passing game coordinator for the Denver Broncos. While Joe Brady serves as the team's offensive coordinator, Leonhard will now take over the defensive coordinator vacancy and report directly to McDermott as the Bills solidify their coaching hierarchy for the upcoming season.
Leonhard is a highly regarded defensive mind who previously spent several years as the defensive coordinator and interim head coach at the University of Wisconsin. During his time with the Badgers, his defensive units consistently ranked among the best in the nation. His transition to the NFL coaching ranks continued last season in Denver, where he was considered a highly coveted assistant during this coaching cycle.
A veteran of ten NFL seasons as a player, Leonhard had two separate stints with the Buffalo Bills during his playing career. His return to Western New York marks a significant homecoming as he steps into a high-profile coordinator role for a perennial AFC contender.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Sources & Original Reporting
