Bills set to hire Broncos’ Jim Leonhard as DC
The Buffalo Bills are reportedly close to signing a key asset from the Denver Broncos.
The Buffalo Bills are poised to name Jim Leonhard as their new defensive coordinator, a high-profile addition as the franchise reshapes the coaching staff under first-time head coach Joe Brady.
Multiple NFL outlets report that Leonhard, currently the assistant head coach and defensive pass game coordinator with the Denver Broncos, has agreed to terms to lead Buffalo’s defence heading into the 2026 season.
Curiously, Leonhard’s journey back to Buffalo is a full-circle moment. The 43-year-old began his NFL playing career with the Bills after going undrafted out of Wisconsin in 2005, spending his first three seasons in Orchard Park and returning later in 2013.
Across a ten-year playing career, he also saw time with the Ravens, Jets, Broncos and Browns, earning respect as a gritty defensive back and special teams contributor.
ESPN sources: the Buffalo Bills are expected to hire Broncos defensive passing game coordinator and assistant HC Jim Leonhard as their defensive coordinator. Leonhard visited the Chargers and Ravens, but now will be in charge of the Bills’ defense. pic.twitter.com/AU39lgmSzx
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) January 31, 2026
After retiring from playing, Leonhard turned to coaching. He spent seven seasons at his alma mater, the University of Wisconsin, including six as defensive coordinator and a stint as interim head coach in 2022.
He then spent a year as a senior football analyst at Illinois before joining the Broncos in 2024 as defensive backs coach and passing game coordinator. In 2025, he added the title of assistant head coach, helping Denver’s defence rank among the league’s best.
For Buffalo, the hire, which sees them beat competition from both the Los Angeles Chargers and Baltimore Ravens, is part of a broader overhaul. Joe Brady was promoted from offensive coordinator to head coach after the dismissal of Sean McDermott following a playoff loss to the Broncos.
Brady has already moved to bring in trusted names, including Pete Carmichael Jr. as offensive coordinator, and now looks to strengthen the defensive side of the ball with Leonhard.
Sources: The #Bills are hiring #Broncos defensive passing game coordinator Jim Leonhard as their new defensive coordinator. They have agreed to terms.
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 31, 2026
A big hire for new coach Joe Brady. The former player, Leonhard was coveted. pic.twitter.com/rdWu9YX8wM
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