Bills Appoint Broncos’ Jim Leonhard as Defensive Coordinator
A significant change is underway for the Buffalo Bills’ coaching staff as head coach Joe Brady fills a crucial position. The team has appointed Jim Leonhard, an assistant head coach and defensive pass game coordinator from the Denver Broncos, as their new defensive coordinator.
Bills Hire Jim Leonhard as Defensive Coordinator
This hiring was reported by NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport. Leonhard adds to a revamped coaching team, joining Pete Carmichael Jr., who was named offensive coordinator just a day earlier. At 43 years old, Leonhard has quickly ascended the coaching ranks.
Coaching Background of Jim Leonhard
- Leonhard started with the Broncos as a defensive backs coach and pass game coordinator in 2024.
- He was promoted to assistant head coach in 2025.
- His playing career spanned ten years, including four seasons with the Bills starting in 2005.
Under his leadership, the Broncos made a significant playoff run, reaching the AFC Championship Game in 2025. This included a memorable overtime victory against the Bills in the Divisional Round.
Expectations and Challenges Ahead
Now, Leonhard faces the challenge of helping the Bills achieve their Super Bowl ambitions. This will be his first role as a defensive coordinator in the NFL, following Bobby Babich’s departure from the position. Babich had held the role for the previous two seasons.
Former head coach Sean McDermott previously managed the team’s defensive play-calling, and Leonhard steps in to fill that void. He brings experience from his time as the defensive coordinator at the University of Wisconsin from 2017 to 2022. Furthermore, in his final year, he served as interim head coach.
Leonhard’s Impact on Player Development
During his tenure with the Broncos, Leonhard significantly contributed to the development of standout player Patrick Surtain II, who was named the 2024 AP NFL Defensive Player of the Year. Under Leonhard’s guidance, the Broncos finished as the league’s second-best total defense in 2025.
Despite exploring opportunities with other teams, including the Dallas Cowboys, Los Angeles Chargers, and New York Jets, Leonhard has returned to Buffalo, where he hopes to make a lasting impact.
