Tuesday, January 27, 2026-Former NFL quarterback Philip Rivers has officially withdrawn his name from consideration for the Buffalo Bills’ head coaching position, ending what had become one of the most talked-about aspects of the team’s coaching search.
Rivers interviewed with the Bills late last week as the franchise worked to replace Sean McDermott, who was fired after nine seasons following another playoff disappointment. Rivers’ decision on Monday means he will not be the next head coach in Buffalo’s rebuilding process.
At age 44, Rivers had been a surprising candidate given his lack of formal collegiate or professional coaching experience, but his leadership reputation and strong relationship with Bills quarterback Josh Allen made him intriguing to fans and analysts alike.
He returned from retirement late in the 2025 season to start three games for the Indianapolis Colts after being out of the NFL for five years, before retiring again and resuming his role as head coach at St. Michael Catholic High School in Alabama. Rivers’ work with his sons and commitment to his current team were reported as key reasons behind his withdrawal.
With Rivers out of the race, the Bills’ coaching search remains active, now focusing on candidates with established NFL coaching resumes. Buffalo has interviewed a range of contenders, including offensive coordinator Joe Brady who has since been named the new head coach and other coordinators and former head coaches still under consideration. Rivers’ decision underscores how the Bills are balancing bold, unconventional choices with the demands of leading a contending NFL franchise.
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