With news in Buffalo that the Bills have fired head coach Sean McDermott, a frantic search has begun to find his latest successor. Rumors are starting to spread that a familiar name and former Chargers head coach has emerged as an early contender.
According to several sources, Anthony Lynn has interviewed for the Buffalo Bills’ head coaching vacancy. Lynn was actually considered a finalist for the Bills job back in 2017 but was looked over as the Bills hired McDermott.
Many Chargers fans may not remember Lynn fondly, as he oversaw Philip Rivers’ final years in the league. He also oversaw Herbert’s first year in the league, infamously calling him a “backup for a reason”. While Lynn’s tenure in LA did not end well, he did lead the Chargers to a playoff win in 2018, the only Chargers coach that decade to achieve that feat. He also was responsible for leading the team from its transition from San Diego to Los Angeles.
A Complicated but Underrated Chargers Tenure
However, it’s no secret why the Bills have inquired about his potential services as well. Before becoming head coach of the Chargers, Lynn was a running backs coach for them back in the 2015 and 2016 seasons under Rex Ryan. After Greg Roman was fired, Lynn was actually promoted to be assistant head coach and offensive coordinator. He became the interim head coach of the team after the Bills lost in overtime to the Dolphins for the season finale, where he oversaw a 30-10 loss to the Jets.
Over his time with the Chargers, Lynn compiled a 33-31 record and was fired by the organization in 2020. From there, he has spent time in Detroit as their offensive coordinator and with San Francisco working with running backs. He is currently the run game coordinator and running backs coach for the Washington Commanders.
Lynn, despite the rough exit from LA, was actually revered by the fanbase for what he was able to do with the team. Going from a franchise legend to a rookie starter was highly difficult and yet he handled the situation with class.
Why Buffalo Is Taking a Second Look
Above all else, Lynn has also showcased his unique skillset and veteran experience leading teams. Without his 12-4 season in 2018, the Chargers would not have had any playoff success in the 2010s. In many ways, Lynn stood for what the franchise is now missing: the grit and toughness required to lead a team.
Now, Lynn could be set to go back to the team that originally believed in his talents, this time with a much better squad and better circumstances. He would have perhaps the most talented quarterback in the league at his disposal and the roster to compete in the AFC. Still, questions will emerge of whether or not he will be the right guy considering the Bills already have a legitimate option in house in Joe Brady. Still, it is nice that Lynn can be presented a second chance in the league.
No matter what, Lynn will forever be remembered fondly in LA.
Former Chargers Head Coach Early Contender for Bills HC Vacancy