Joe Brady Hires Jim Leonhard As Bills Defensive Coordinator

Joe Brady has found his defensive coordinator. Per NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport, the Buffalo Bills are hiring Jim Leonhard from the Denver Broncos, with a contract agreed. A former NFL safety who coached at Wisconsin and rose to passing game coordinator and assistant head coach in Denver, Leonhard helped shepherd one of the league’s stingiest defenses as the Broncos ranked among the best in yards and points allowed while finishing 14-3 and reaching the AFC Championship. Brady also brought in Pete Carmichael Jr. and confirmed "he will be the team's offensive playcaller in 2026." Merlin sees Buffalo moving with purpose. Leonhard brings proven scheme work and secondary craft from a top Broncos unit, giving Brady a defensive architect to match his offense. The fit will hinge on personnel and adjustment speed, but the hire signals a clear bid to control both sides of the ball rather than tinker.