Former NFL quarterback Philip Rivers proved he still knows how to run a professional offense when he came out of retirement to play three games for the Indianapolis Colts in December.
Those appearances did not result in wins, but they did something just as important. They showed that Rivers, even at 44, still has command of an NFL huddle, understands modern offenses, and can connect with players at the highest level.
Now, that brief comeback may have opened the door to something much bigger.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Buffalo Bills are interested enough in Rivers to bring him in for an interview for their head coaching vacancy. The interview is scheduled for Friday, making Rivers one of the more surprising names to enter the search.
Why the Bills Are Taking Philip Rivers Seriously
Rivers officially retired after the 2020 NFL season and quickly transitioned into coaching at the high school level. Since then, he has served as the head coach at St. Michael Catholic High School in Alabama.
Despite having no prior NFL coaching experience, Rivers has found success there. Under his leadership, the team has reached the state semifinals twice. While high school football is far removed from the NFL, the results suggest Rivers understands how to lead, teach, and motivate players.
That leadership element appears to be one of the reasons Buffalo is intrigued.
NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that Rivers has a strong relationship with Josh Allen, the Bills’ franchise quarterback. That connection matters, especially with Buffalo involving Allen in the process of replacing Sean McDermott.
Given Allen’s status as one of the best quarterbacks in the league, the Bills want to be sure their next coach aligns with him both on and off the field. Rivers’ long NFL career, combined with his quarterback-first perspective, could make him appealing in that role.
The interview also does not necessarily mean Buffalo is locked into Rivers as a head coach. By bringing him in now, the Bills could evaluate him as a potential offensive coordinator as well, especially if they decide to hire a head coach with a defensive background.
That flexibility makes the move logical, even if it feels unconventional.
Rivers would be a truly out-of-the-box hire in today’s NFL. Most teams prefer coordinators with years of professional coaching experience. Rivers, on the other hand, would be making the leap from high school football straight into an NFL leadership role.
Still, his recent on-field showing changed perceptions. Even in losses, Rivers demonstrated poise, preparation, and a deep understanding of offensive structure. Those traits, paired with his reputation as a locker room leader, help explain why his candidacy is being taken seriously.
At one time, the idea of Philip Rivers interviewing for an NFL head coaching job might have seemed far-fetched. After his short but telling return to the league, it no longer sounds unrealistic.
Whether the Bills ultimately choose him or not, Rivers has clearly put himself back on the NFL map in an unexpected way.
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