Mike Tomlin Will Not Coach Buffalo Bills in 2026, Takes Season Off
The Buffalo Bills will not hire Mike Tomlin as their next head coach. This news comes after the team fired Sean McDermott on January 19, 2026. The Bills made this decision in Buffalo, New York, just two days after a tough playoff loss.
Bills Fire McDermott After Playoff Exit
Sean McDermott lost his job as head coach of the Buffalo Bills on January 19, 2026. The Bills dismissed him after another disappointing playoff run. McDermott had led the team since 2017. He helped turn the Bills into regular contenders during his tenure.
Under McDermott, the Bills achieved multiple postseason appearances. He posted a strong regular-season record with the franchise. However, McDermott never managed to guide Buffalo to a Super Bowl. The team's latest loss ended their season in heartbreak.
The Bills fell to the Denver Broncos 33–30 in overtime on January 17, 2026. This defeat occurred during the NFL Divisional Round. It dashed the team's Super Bowl hopes once again. The firing followed quickly after this playoff exit.
Tomlin Takes Coaching Break for 2026 Season
Mike Tomlin will not fill the vacant Buffalo coaching position. Tomlin has already announced his plans to step away from coaching. He intends to take the entire 2026 NFL season off. Tomlin will not appear on any NFL sideline next year.
This decision ends speculation about Tomlin joining the Bills. Fans and media voices had quickly linked him to the open job. The idea gained traction because Tomlin commands great respect around the league. Buffalo also boasts a franchise quarterback in Josh Allen.
NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport confirmed Tomlin's plans on January 19, 2026. Rapoport reported that Tomlin expects to sit out the 2026 season. He is not anticipated to accept any head coaching job during this period.
Tomlin Leaves Steelers After Long Tenure
Mike Tomlin recently stepped down from the Pittsburgh Steelers. He left the team on January 13, 2026, after nineteen seasons as head coach. Tomlin departs with an impressive legacy from his time in Pittsburgh.
Tomlin led the Steelers to a Super Bowl victory during the 2008 season. He oversaw many winning years with the franchise. Tomlin built a reputation for steady leadership throughout his coaching career. However, deep playoff runs became scarcer in recent seasons.
Tomlin ultimately chose to pause his coaching career. He will not return to the NFL for the 2026 campaign. This break includes any potential move to the Buffalo Bills organization.
Contract Issues Make Buffalo Move Unrealistic
Business considerations also prevent Tomlin from joining the Bills. The Pittsburgh Steelers still control Tomlin's coaching rights through the 2026 season. Any NFL team wanting to hire him before his contract ends would need to trade draft picks to Pittsburgh.
This situation is not expected to develop further. Tomlin's lack of interest in coaching this year makes such a trade unlikely. The contractual hurdles add another layer of complexity to any potential move.
Bills Begin Search for New Head Coach
The Buffalo Bills must now focus fully on finding a new leader. The team's search for a head coach is just beginning. Several early names have emerged as potential candidates around the league.
Joe Brady and Brian Daboll are among the offensive-minded coaches under consideration. These candidates could help quarterback Josh Allen reach the Super Bowl stage. The Bills will explore various options to fill their coaching vacancy.
One thing remains clear amid this search. Mike Tomlin will not become the next head coach of the Buffalo Bills. The team must look elsewhere for its sideline leader in the 2026 season.
Note: Sean McDermott and Mike Tomlin both attended the College of William & Mary. They share a long personal connection. However, this link will not bring Tomlin to Buffalo for the upcoming season.
