The Unexpected Coaching Contender: Philip Rivers and the Buffalo Bills
In a surprising turn of events, former NFL quarterback Philip Rivers has emerged as a serious candidate for the Buffalo Bills’ head coaching position. Initially, when news broke that the Bills had interviewed Rivers, many assumed it was merely a box-checking exercise in their search to replace Sean McDermott. However, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport has revealed that Rivers is under genuine consideration for the role, having reportedly “crushed” his in-person interview with the organization.
Rivers, now 44, recently made headlines by coming out of retirement to start three games for the Indianapolis Colts following quarterback injuries, though he went 0-3 in those appearances. Despite his lack of professional coaching experience, Rivers has been developing his leadership skills as the head football coach at St. Michael Catholic High School in Fairhope, Alabama, since 2021, following his 17-year NFL career primarily with the Chargers organization. This combination of recent playing experience and coaching at the high school level has evidently impressed the Bills’ decision-makers.
What makes Rivers an intriguing candidate is his potential to assemble a strong coaching staff, leveraging his extensive connections throughout the league. According to Rapoport, Rivers could call upon respected veterans like former Colts and Panthers coach Frank Reich or San Francisco 49ers assistant Gus Bradley to join his staff. Additionally, while Rivers has only been a high school coach formally, Rapoport noted that he “has basically been a head coach and essentially a play-caller on every team he’s been in over the last decade or so” of his playing career, suggesting he brings more coaching acumen than his resume might initially indicate.
The Bills aren’t putting all their eggs in the Rivers basket, however. They’re continuing their search by interviewing other candidates, including Jacksonville Jaguars offensive coordinator Grant Udinski and former New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll. Daboll, in particular, has strong ties to the organization, having previously served as the Bills’ offensive coordinator under McDermott and played a crucial role in developing Josh Allen into an MVP-caliber quarterback. This connection to Allen could give Daboll an edge in the selection process, as the Bills’ future success will largely depend on maximizing their star quarterback’s abilities.
Sean McDermott, who was dismissed after nine seasons with the Bills, leaves behind a substantial legacy in Buffalo. Under his leadership, the team compiled an impressive 98-50 record, the second-most wins by any NFL team since he began coaching the Bills in 2017. McDermott led the franchise to eight playoff appearances, including two AFC Championship games, though they fell short of reaching the Super Bowl both times, losing to the Kansas City Chiefs. ESPN has reported that McDermott may take a year away from coaching following his departure from Buffalo.
As the Bills’ coaching search continues, Rivers’ candidacy represents one of the more fascinating storylines of the NFL offseason. His potential transition from high school coach to NFL head coach would be unprecedented in modern football, yet his deep understanding of the game, leadership qualities, and ability to connect with players make him an intriguing option. Whether the Bills ultimately select Rivers or another candidate, their decision will significantly impact the franchise’s direction as they continue their pursuit of that elusive first Super Bowl championship with Josh Allen at the helm.
