Overview
- Buffalo announced the 43-year-old Broncos assistant head coach and defensive pass game coordinator as its new defensive play-caller, returning him to the franchise where he began his NFL career.
- Joe Brady praised Leonhard’s vision and communication, positioning him to reshape a unit previously directed by Sean McDermott.
- Denver’s defense finished second in yards allowed in 2025 after a top-seven showing in 2024, strengthening Leonhard’s NFL résumé from his two-year stint under Sean Payton.
- The move extends Buffalo’s pipeline from Denver after hiring Pete Carmichael Jr., while Denver now has multiple staff openings as indications point to Vance Joseph staying on as DC.
- With a schematic shift anticipated, reporting ties Buffalo to potential free-agent targets familiar with Leonhard’s system, including linebackers Leo Chenal and Jack Sanborn.