Philip Rivers Declines, Withdraws from Bills Coaching Opportunity


Date of Publication: January 26, 2026, 08:10h.

Most Recent Update: January 26, 2026, 08:10h.

  • Grant Udinski is now leading the race for the Buffalo Bills head coaching position
  • Philip Rivers has stepped back from consideration
  • Reports suggest that four vacant NFL coaching roles are expected to be filled this week

According to ESPN NFL analyst Adam Schefter, it is anticipated that most, if not all, of the last four NFL coaching positions will be filled by the end of this week. This includes the situation for the Buffalo Bills, which has seen an update today with the news that Philip Rivers has removed himself from the candidate list for the role.

Grant Udinski
Grant Udinski, the offensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars, during a preseason game against the New Orleans Saints last August. He is a candidate for the Buffalo Bills head coaching position. (Image: Logan Bowles/Getty Images)

As per the latest odds from FanDuel Canada, Grant Udinski has emerged as the leading contender for the Bills’ head coaching role, with odds set at -180. Following him is Brian Daboll, previously the favorite, now at +210, followed by Davis Webb at +380, Klint Kubiak at +470, Joe Brady at +850, Anthony Lynn at +1400, Jonathan Gannon and Bill Belichick both at +1900.

Udinski Emerges as Top Candidate for Bills

Rivers had an interview with the Bills on Friday despite lacking coaching experience at either the professional or college level. Following the interview, the Hall of Fame-expected quarterback withdrew his candidacy.

Today’s developments saw multiple candidates being interviewed for the Bills’ job. Schefter reported that L.A. Rams pass game coordinator Nate Scheelhaase also interviewed. Current offensive coordinator Joe Brady and Udinski have already had discussions as well.

Daboll, who previously served as the Bills’ offensive coordinator before becoming the head coach of the New York Giants in 2022, was released last fall. However, his longstanding rapport with Bills quarterback Josh Allen is why he remains a strong candidate.

Daboll: Former Offensive Coordinator for the Bills

Dolphins’ defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver is reportedly in line for an interview, along with Denver Broncos passing game coordinator Webb and Lynn from the Washington Commanders.

Significantly, Udinski, the offensive coordinator for the Jacksonville Jaguars, has withdrawn from consideration for the Cleveland Browns position while keeping his focus on the Bills. Schefter indicated that Udinski has also agreed to a new, higher-paying contract with the Jaguars that will be secured if he doesn’t land the Bills job.

Lawrence: Among NFL’s Elite Quarterbacks

Udinski has been recognized for his effective coaching of Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence, who achieved personal bests this season in both touchdown passes (29) and overall touchdowns (38). Only MVP contenders Matthew Stafford and Josh Allen outperformed him in total touchdowns, with 46 and 39 respectively.

At just 30 years old, Udinski is the same age as Josh Allen. The success of Mike MacDonald, 38, who has built a remarkable culture in Seattle, propelling the Seahawks to Super Bowl LX on February 8, has brought attention back to younger coaches.

Currently, the Las Vegas Raiders, Cleveland Browns, Arizona Cardinals, and the Bills are still seeking new head coaches.



Source link