Who Is Pete Carmichael Jr.? Meet the Bills’ New Offensive Coordinator
This article was originally published on Total Pro Sports.
The Buffalo Bills have made a major coaching hire, naming Pete Carmichael Jr. as their new offensive coordinator under newly promoted head coach Joe Brady. Carmichael brings decades of NFL experience, a strong background in offensive strategy, and a history of success.
A Veteran Tapped for a Critical Role
As Buffalo begins a new era under head coach Joe Brady, who was recently promoted from offensive coordinator to head coach, the first major staff move was hiring Pete Carmichael Jr. as the team’s offensive coordinator. This pairing reunites Brady with a mentor figure and adds a proven offensive mind to the Bills’ coaching staff ahead of the 2026 NFL season.
Early Life and Coaching Beginnings
Pete Carmichael Jr. (full name Peter Edwards Carmichael Jr.) was born on October 6, 1971, in Framingham, Massachusetts. He began his coaching path soon after his time at Boston College, where he laid the foundation for a decades-long coaching career.
He first entered the NFL coaching ranks in 2000 with the Cleveland Browns as a tight ends coach and offensive assistant. In subsequent years, he held assistant roles with the Washington Redskins and San Diego Chargers, gaining varied offensive experience before landing in New Orleans
The first big hire for #Bills coach Joe Brady: Buffalo has agreed to terms with Pete Carmichael Jr. to be their offensive coordinator, per The Insiders.
The long-time Sean Payton lieutenant has been a #Broncos senior offensive assistant. He was a long-time OC for the #Saints. pic.twitter.com/PW23y6lOpF
— Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) January 30, 2026
Breakthrough with the New Orleans Saints
Carmichael joined the New Orleans Saints in 2006, initially as a quarterbacks coach and later also as a passing game coordinator, roles that saw him work closely with legendary quarterback Drew Brees. One year later, on January 12, 2009, he was promoted to offensive coordinator, replacing Doug Marrone.
Over the next 15 seasons (2009–2023), Carmichael directed one of the league’s most potent offenses. Under his leadership, the Saints frequently ranked among the NFL’s top offenses in total yardage and scoring. The team’s offensive success helped propel New Orleans to a Super Bowl XLIV victory, giving Carmichael a championship ring.
Recent Coaching Stops Before Buffalo
After leaving the Saints following the 2023 season, Carmichael reunited with his longtime colleague, Sean Payton, in Denver, serving as a senior offensive assistant for the Broncos starting in 2024. In that role, he continued to shape offensive strategy and mentor players and coaches.
In January 2026, the Buffalo Bills hired Carmichael as offensive coordinator, reuniting with his former protégé, Joe Brady, with whom he had worked in New Orleans during the late 2010s.
Conclusion
Pete Carmichael Jr. stands out as one of the NFL’s most experienced and respected offensive minds. Moreover, his hiring as the Buffalo Bills’ offensive coordinator reunites him with Joe Brady and brings a wealth of strategic knowledge to a team aiming for championship success.
