Philip Rivers withdraws from Bills head coaching search: reports

NFL great Philip Rivers has reportedly withdrawn as a candidate for the Buffalo Bills head coaching job despite earning high marks in his interview.

Rivers retired Monday morning, according to multiple reports. He had been one of the few people considered for the position to replace Sean McDermott. The Bills fired McDermott last week after a heartbreaking playoff loss to the Denver Broncos.

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Indianapolis Colts quarterback Philip Rivers (17) reacts after a play during the first half against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Lucas Oil Stadium on Dec. 28, 2025. (Robert Godddin/imagn Images)

The former quarterback interviewed for the position after playing for the Indianapolis Colts this season. He came off the bench as the head coach of a high school team and was thrust into the starting job once Daniel Jones tore his Achilles tendon and was lost for the rest of the season.

Rivers never won a game with the Colts, and Indianapolis’ chances of making the playoffs ultimately faded. By playing in the league this season, Rivers also reset his Hall of Fame clock even as he was likely about to arrive in Canton this year.

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Philip Rivers (17) warms up before a game against the Jacksonville Jaguars at Lucas Oil Stadium on Dec. 28, 2025. (Robert Godddin/imagn Images)

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It seemed like Rivers was a viable head coaching option in the Bills’ minds.

“One of the biggest stories of the year was Philip Rivers’ return to the field, unbelievable, and it’s really not over yet,” NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport said on “NFL Gameday Morning.”

“Philip Rivers interviewed in the last few days for the Buffalo Bills head coaching job, in person. That’s real, this really happened, and I understand it’s being seriously considered.”

Indianapolis Colts quarterback Philip Rivers (17) leaves the field after losing a game against the San Francisco 49ers at Lucas Oil Stadium on December 22, 2025. (Christine Tannous/USA TODAY Network via Imagn Images)

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Buffalo has interviewed Grant Udinski, Anthony Lynn, Anthony Weaver, Lou Anarumo, Brian Daboll and Joe Brady for the position, in addition to Rivers.

News’ Scott Thompson contributed to this report.

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