Another head coach vacancy is added to the list. The Buffalo Bills have announced the firing of head coach Sean McDermott. McDermott’s spearheaded the turnaround for the organization, and brought wins a plenty for the team. He’s been at the helm of the franchise’s current success, but after a myriad of playoff berths amounted to zero rings, ownership has decided to step in. It feels like this decision is changing the trajectory of the team for the better. However, with the state in which coaching around the league is, signs point towards regret for the Bills
Where the firing makes sense
Jan 17, 2026; Denver, CO, USA; Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott during overtime of an AFC Divisional Round playoff game at Empower Field against the Denver Broncos at Mile High. Mandatory Credit: Ron Chenoy-Imagn Images
First off, it’s important to note that the reasoning behind the decision feels sound at first glance. The plateauing of the Buffalo Bills is a key reason why McDermott is no longer employed. Buffalo’s had a six season playoff appearance streak yet has nothing to show for it. At face value, it makes sense. You can’t go that long without forward progress. While the Bills are competitive year in and year out, their playoff woes necessitated a change.
McDermott’s firing is the wrong one
Jan 7, 2024; Miami Gardens, Florida, USA; Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott celebrates after the game against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Sam Navarro-Imagn Images
With all that said, McDermott being shown the door is the wrong change. Without looking at the win loss record (which is favorable for McDermott), his ability to even get far in the playoffs given his roster deficiencies is commendable. Furthermore, until recently, he’s held an iron grip on the AFC East. But perhaps the biggest indicator of his prowess as a leader is his job this year. With journeymen, role players and older guys past their prime, McDermott fielded a defense and team that consistently punched up their own weight.
Brandon Beane must go
Feb 25, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Buffalo Bills general manager Brandon Beane speaks during the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
When looking at Buffalo’s losses, the issues at hand become more so due to the roster rather than the coaching. Since 2018, GM Brandon Beane has drafted 56 players. Only two of them have made a single pro-bowl. While the pro-bowl isn’t the end all be all of roster evaluation, it reflects just how much the team has struggled at putting talent in place. His inability to find decent receivers and insistence on relying on older players has led to consistent disappointment come playoff time. You can justify cleaning house and firing Sean McDermott, but Brandon Beane should go with him.
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