John Fox Brings Veteran Prowess to Buffalo Bills' 2026 Coaching Staff
BUFFALO, NY – The Buffalo Bills are fortifying their coaching ranks for the 2026 NFL season with a significant addition: veteran NFL head coach John Fox has been named as a Senior Assistant Coach. The announcement, part of a broader wave of assistant coaching staff updates revealed by Head Coach Joe Brady on February 13, 2026, signals a strategic move to integrate extensive football acumen into the team's operations.
A New Role for a Familiar Face in the NFL
John Fox, a renowned figure in American football, brings a wealth of experience to Orchard Park. Having previously served as a head coach for the Carolina Panthers and the Chicago Bears, Fox has a proven track record of leading teams and navigating the complexities of the National Football League. His appointment as a Senior Assistant Coach suggests a role focused on providing high-level strategic guidance and mentorship across various facets of the team, supporting the established coordinators and Head Coach Brady.
The Bills' coaching staff for 2026 is taking shape under Joe Brady, who is building a comprehensive team of assistants. Alongside offensive coordinator Pete Carmichael, defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard, and special teams coordinator Jeff Rodgers, the addition of Fox is expected to enhance the team's strategic depth. The Bills announced a total of 20 assistant coaches, highlighting a commitment to robust support for every unit.
Broader Coaching Staff Updates Under Brady
The inclusion of John Fox is not an isolated event but part of a larger effort by Head Coach Joe Brady to assemble a dynamic and experienced coaching group. Several other coaches have seen promotions or new roles within the organization, reflecting a continuous development and refinement of the coaching staff.
Key Promotions and New Hires
- Rob Boras, a long-time member of the Bills staff since 2017, has been promoted to Run Game Coordinator and Tight Ends Coach. His tenure has seen significant contributions, including coaching tight ends like Dawson Knox and Dalton Kincaid to franchise records and high performance.
- Joe Danna moves up to Secondary Coach after successfully coaching the safeties since 2023. Under his guidance, the Bills' defense has consistently ranked among the league's best in interceptions and pass defense.
- D.J. Mangas, who has progressed through offensive roles since joining in 2023, will now focus solely on his position as Assistant Wide Receivers Coach, contributing to a potent offense that has been a top performer in scoring and yardage.
- Jason Rebrovich returns to a senior role as Senior Defensive Assistant. Having previously coached for the Bills from 2013-16, Rebrovich rejoins the staff after a successful stint as Assistant Defensive Line Coach in 2025, a year that saw the defensive line achieve significant sack numbers.
- Kyle Shurmur earns a promotion to Assistant Quarterbacks Coach. He has been instrumental in coaching an offense that has consistently ranked high in points and yards per game, supporting quarterback Josh Allen's prolific career touchdown numbers.
- Alvin Vaughn has been appointed Defensive Assistant. Vaughn, who joined as a fellowship coach in 2023, has been part of a defensive unit that has excelled in takeaways and pass defense.
What John Fox Brings to the Table
John Fox's career in the NFL spans decades, offering a deep understanding of game planning, player management, and in-game adjustments. As a Senior Assistant Coach, his responsibilities will likely involve providing a seasoned perspective to Head Coach Brady and the coordinator group. This could include contributing to scouting reports, developing game strategies, advising on personnel decisions, and mentoring younger coaches. His experience as a former head coach implies a holistic view of team operations, which can be invaluable in fostering a winning culture and optimizing performance across the board.
The Buffalo Bills have been consistently competitive in recent years, aiming to reach and win a Super Bowl. The addition of a coach with Fox's pedigree suggests a commitment to leveraging every possible advantage, including experienced leadership and strategic insight. His presence could be particularly beneficial in navigating challenging divisional matchups and playoff scenarios, where veteran experience often proves critical.
Looking Ahead to the 2026 Season
With the 2026 NFL season on the horizon, the Buffalo Bills are making deliberate moves to enhance their coaching staff. The integration of John Fox, alongside the promotions and appointments of other dedicated coaches, underscores Head Coach Joe Brady's vision for a cohesive and highly capable coaching team. As the team continues to build and refine its strategies, the collective experience and expertise of this new-look coaching staff will be a key factor in their pursuit of success.