Anthony Lynn coach remains a major name in NFL coaching discussions as of January 2026, following confirmation that he is interviewing for the Buffalo Bills’ head coaching vacancy. The former Los Angeles Chargers head coach and current Washington Commanders run game coordinator is once again in the spotlight, drawing attention for his experience, leadership, and potential return to a top role on the league’s sidelines.
The coaching carousel this offseason has moved quickly, and Lynn’s inclusion among the first wave of interview candidates signals that front offices continue to value proven leadership and long-term NFL experience. For a franchise seeking stability and postseason success, his background places him firmly in contention.
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Who Is Anthony Lynn Coach?
Anthony Lynn coach is a former NFL running back who successfully transitioned into one of the league’s most respected offensive minds. Born on December 21, 1968, in Texas, he built a playing career that included two Super Bowl championships before shifting into coaching in the early 2000s.
Over more than two decades, Lynn has held roles across nearly every level of an NFL staff, including:
- Special teams assistant
- Running backs coach
- Offensive coordinator
- Assistant head coach
- Interim head coach
- Full-time head coach
His journey reflects steady growth, adaptability, and a reputation for connecting with players while maintaining accountability.
Current Role With the Washington Commanders
Entering the 2025–26 season, Anthony Lynn coach serves as the Washington Commanders’ run game coordinator and running backs coach. In this role, he oversees:
- Rushing scheme design
- Player development in the backfield
- Weekly game planning for ground attack efficiency
- Coordination with offensive line and play-calling staff
The Commanders’ commitment to a balanced offensive identity has allowed Lynn to showcase his strengths in creating physical, disciplined run concepts while mentoring younger talent. His presence has also added veteran leadership to a staff undergoing structural rebuilding.
Buffalo Bills Head Coaching Interview
The most significant development in Lynn’s career this month is his scheduled interview for the Buffalo Bills head coaching position. The vacancy opened during the 2026 offseason, and Lynn is among the earliest candidates invited to meet with team leadership.
This opportunity is notable for several reasons:
- He previously served in Buffalo as assistant head coach and later as interim head coach.
- He has direct experience leading a playoff-caliber roster.
- He brings both locker room credibility and front-office familiarity.
The interview represents his first serious head coaching consideration since his departure from the Chargers and places him back into the league’s highest leadership tier.
Head Coaching History With the Chargers
Anthony Lynn coach led the Los Angeles Chargers from 2017 through 2020. During that time:
- He became the franchise’s first Black head coach.
- He guided the team to a 12–4 record in the 2018 season.
- He secured a playoff appearance and a postseason road victory.
- He compiled a winning record over four seasons.
His tenure was marked by strong player relationships, an emphasis on discipline, and a commitment to physical football. Although the later seasons were impacted by injuries and roster turnover, Lynn’s ability to guide a team to double-digit wins remains a key highlight on his résumé.
Coaching Philosophy and Style
Anthony Lynn coach is widely known for a leadership approach built on three pillars:
1. Player Development
Lynn has earned praise for improving the performance of running backs and young quarterbacks. His coaching style emphasizes fundamentals, conditioning, and situational awareness.
2. Accountability
He is regarded as direct but fair, setting clear expectations and maintaining consistency across the locker room.
3. Balanced Offense
Rather than relying solely on pass-heavy schemes, Lynn advocates for controlling the line of scrimmage and using the run game to dictate tempo.
This philosophy has followed him throughout his career and aligns closely with teams seeking stability rather than constant schematic overhauls.
Why Teams Still Trust Anthony Lynn Coach
Despite several seasons away from a head coaching role, Lynn remains a respected figure because of:
- Proven experience managing full staffs
- Familiarity with modern offensive systems
- Strong communication with both veterans and young players
- History of working effectively with front offices
He also brings postseason experience as both a player and coach, giving him perspective that resonates in organizations with championship aspirations.
Career Timeline Overview
| Year Range | Role | Team |
|---|---|---|
| 2000–2008 | Position Coach | Multiple NFL Teams |
| 2009–2014 | RB Coach / Assistant HC | New York Jets |
| 2015–2016 | Assistant HC / Interim HC | Buffalo Bills |
| 2017–2020 | Head Coach | Los Angeles Chargers |
| 2021 | Offensive Coordinator | Detroit Lions |
| 2022–2023 | Assistant Head Coach / RB Coach | San Francisco 49ers |
| 2024–Present | Run Game Coordinator / RB Coach | Washington Commanders |
This progression highlights a steady accumulation of responsibility and trust across respected organizations.
What a Return to a Head Coaching Role Would Mean
If selected, Anthony Lynn coach would reenter the league’s top coaching tier at a time when franchises are prioritizing:
- Culture building
- Locker room stability
- Proven leadership over experimental hires
For the Bills, his familiarity with the organization and experience managing playoff expectations could offer continuity and calm during a transition period.
For Lynn, it would mark a full-circle moment, returning to a franchise where he once held interim leadership and now could take the reins permanently.
Standing in the 2026 Coaching Market
This offseason has seen heavy competition for head coaching openings. Lynn’s name surfacing among early interview candidates confirms that league decision-makers continue to view him as a viable long-term solution rather than a temporary option.
His combination of:
- Head coaching experience
- Coordinator-level tactical knowledge
- Player-first leadership style
keeps him relevant in a hiring environment that often favors both innovation and stability.
Conclusion
As the NFL’s 2026 offseason unfolds, Anthony Lynn coach stands at a pivotal point in his professional journey. With a confirmed interview for a head coaching vacancy and a strong current role shaping the Washington Commanders’ run game, his profile has risen once again across the league. Whether he secures the position or continues building from the coordinator level, his influence and reputation remain firmly established.
Stay tuned for further updates on Anthony Lynn’s coaching future, and share your thoughts on where you think his next chapter should lead.
