Buffalo Bills Exclude Bill Belichick from Head Coach Consideration
The Buffalo Bills are actively searching for a new head coach, but one of the most decorated names in NFL history is reportedly not in contention. According to sources, the franchise has no interest in hiring Bill Belichick, the six-time Super Bowl champion, despite his legendary status in the league.
Search Begins After McDermott's Dismissal
This coaching hunt follows the dismissal of Sean McDermott on Monday, after a disappointing loss to the Denver Broncos in the AFC Divisional Round of the playoffs. The Bills have cast a wide net in their search, even interviewing former quarterback Philip Rivers for the role. However, they are seemingly unwilling to extend their search to include Belichick, a former divisional rival from his time with the New England Patriots.
Pro Football Talk reports that Buffalo is not interested in the University of North Carolina head coach. Belichick, aged 73, is described as 'radioactive' by many NFL owners currently seeking new head coaches. This damning reputation stems from various distractions and negative headlines that have surrounded him over the past year.
Controversies and Reputation Concerns
Key factors contributing to Belichick's tarnished image include his bitter exit from the New England Patriots and his strained relationship with owner Robert Kraft. Other league executives fear that similar conflicts could arise if they hire him. Additionally, there are reservations about his tendency to conduct a full organisational takeover, bringing in his own staff and dismissing long-term employees, which reportedly hindered his candidacy with the Atlanta Falcons in 2024.
Belichick's personal life has also drawn significant media attention, particularly his relationship with 24-year-old Jordon Hudson. Since their relationship became public in 2023, it has sparked controversy due to their 49-year age difference. Hudson, a former cheerleader, has rarely been out of the spotlight, with incidents such as awkwardly interrupting a CBS interview with Belichick and pleading with the University of North Carolina to censor social media comments about their relationship.
Impact on University and Legal Actions
The University of North Carolina has faced backlash from alumni, donors, and faculty over the relationship, with critics calling it a 'disgrace' and a 'circus' that overshadows Belichick's coaching debut and tarnishes the university's reputation. In November, Hudson claimed she was taking legal action against former ESPN reporter Pablo Torre over his reports, including allegations that she was banned from the UNC football facility, which the university refuted.
Despite hiring Belichick, UNC failed to qualify for the College Football Playoffs this season, finishing with a 4-8 record and missing a bowl game for the first time since 2018. Since leaving New England in January 2024 after 23 years, Belichick has only had one NFL interview, with the Falcons.
Bills' Coaching Search Developments
The Bills' search has faced setbacks, including former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel canceling a scheduled interview. McDaniel, fired after four seasons without a playoff appearance, is highly regarded for his offensive work and has an agreement to become the offensive coordinator for the Los Angeles Chargers unless offered a head-coaching role. His decision to cancel the meeting with Buffalo was reported by The Athletic, though no reason was given.
Other candidates interviewed by the Bills include current offensive coordinator Joe Brady, former New York Giants head coach Brian Daboll, Miami Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, and Philip Rivers. The Bills continue to evaluate options as they aim to fill the vacancy and build around MVP quarterback Josh Allen.
