Report: Jim Schwartz will not return to Buffalo Bills

Buffalo Bills defensive co-ordinator Jim Schwartz will not return to the franchise for the 2015 season, according to a league source.

"Differing defensive philosophies" are behind the decision as the Bills welcome new head coach Rex Ryan to the franchise, ESPN reports.

Dennis Thurman, Ryan's defensive co-ordinator with the New York Jets for the last two seasons, is expected to take over the role with the Bills ahead of the new campaign.

The Bills finished fourth overall in total defense last season, while they were third in turnovers forced and first in sacks.

The statistics were not enough for Schwartz to remain in his role, but he is expected to receive strong interest from other teams.