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Jim Leonhard Joins Bills as New Defensive Coordinator

1/31/2026

31 2 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Jim Leonhard, the Buffalo Bills' defensive coordinator, has been hired.
Leonhard previously found success with the Denver Broncos and is a former Bills player.
He will replace Bobby Babich, who joined the Green Bay Packers.
The move is part of head coach Joe Brady's revamp after Sean McDermott's firing.
His experience with the organization positions him as a key figure in Buffalo's Super Bowl pursuit.

History

Historical Context

The Buffalo Bills, established in 1960, reached their first Super Bowl in 1990 under head coach Marv Levy, narrowly losing to the New York Giants 20-19. This marked the beginning of a historic playoff era, with the team later achieving four consecutive AFC Championship appearances from 1990 to 1993. Today, Jim Leonhard's hiring as defensive coordinator signals a renewed effort to reclaim that championship legacy.

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Story summary

Jim Leonhard, the Buffalo Bills' defensive coordinator, has been hired.
Leonhard previously found success with the Denver Broncos and is a former Bills player.
He will replace Bobby Babich, who joined the Green Bay Packers.
The move is part of head coach Joe Brady's revamp after Sean McDermott's firing.
His experience with the organization positions him as a key figure in Buffalo's Super Bowl pursuit.

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