The Buffalo Bills have officially appointed Joe Brady as their new head coach, following the dismissal of Sean McDermott on January 19, 2025. Brady, who has been with the organization since 2022, served as the offensive coordinator for the past two seasons, taking on the role on an interim basis in 2023. This decision to promote from within has raised eyebrows, as many view it as a troubling sign for the Bills’ immediate future.
Concerns Surrounding Internal Promotions
Historically, promoting coaches from within the same organization has had mixed results. Between 2011 and 2025, nine NFL franchises chose to elevate either an offensive or defensive coordinator to the role of head coach. Of these coaches, only Jason Garrett of the Dallas Cowboys and Todd Bowles of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers achieved winning records in their tenures. Bowles is notably the only one to have secured a playoff victory.
The overall record of these promoted coaches stands at a disappointing 207 wins, 249 losses, and 3 ties, translating to a win percentage of just .454. Many of these coaches did not last long in their new roles; on average, they lasted 2.4 seasons, with five failing to complete their second year. This trend raises significant concerns about the Bills’ choice.
Historical Context and Future Implications
The Bills’ decision to maintain continuity by hiring Brady mirrors moves made by teams like the New Orleans Saints, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, New York Giants, and Minnesota Vikings. Each of these franchises opted to promote from within after successful runs under their previous head coaches, only to struggle to replicate that success. Critics argue that these teams might have benefited from seeking fresh leadership to invigorate their organizations.
After parting ways with McDermott, who faced criticism for playoff shortcomings, the decision to promote his chosen offensive coordinator seems a risky gamble. The situation is further complicated by Terry Pegula, the Bills’ owner, attributing part of the team’s draft struggles—specifically selecting underperforming wide receiver Keon Coleman at No. 33 in the 2024 NFL Draft—to the coaching staff during a recent press conference.
In light of these factors, many observers believe that bolder changes were warranted. By opting for a familiar face instead of seeking outside expertise, the Bills may have inadvertently jeopardized their prospects for the upcoming 2025 NFL season. As the team moves forward, the impact of this decision will be closely scrutinized, and it may not be long before the sentiment of needing a new direction grows louder in Buffalo.
