Sean McDermott: The Architect of Buffalo’s Revival Faces the Ultimate Test

ORCHARD PARK, 19 January 2026 – For nearly a decade, Sean McDermott has been the steady hand guiding the Buffalo Bills out of the wilderness. Hired in 2017 to overhaul a moribund franchise, he has delivered unprecedented regular-season success: seven consecutive playoff appearances, five division titles, and a .662 winning percentage that places him second only to Marv Levy in franchise history. Yet, as the Bills prepare for another offseason, the defining question remains unanswered. Can the meticulous, defence-minded coach who built a contender finally lead them to the Lombardi Trophy?

The McDermott Foundation: Culture and Consistency

McDermott’s impact is measured in more than wins and losses. He inherited a team burdened by an 18-year playoff drought, the longest in North American sports, and ended it in his first season. The culture shift was immediate and profound. Early rules were strict—banning video games and explicit music in the facility—but were designed to instil a professional, detail-oriented mindset. Over time, as veterans bought in, McDermott has notably loosened the reins, embracing “Dad Joke Fridays” and allowing players more personal expression, a sign of trust earned.

“He came in and set the foundation that he wanted, and then he got the vets that he wanted to lead the team,” said defensive tackle Jordan Phillips, highlighting McDermott’s evolution. This culture, built alongside General Manager Brandon Beane, has created a model of consistency. Since 2019, the Bills have won at least 10 games every season, boasting one of the NFL’s most potent offences led by superstar quarterback Josh Allen.

The Crucible of Criticism: Playoff Shortfalls and Controversy

Despite the regular-season accolades, McDermott’s tenure is punctuated by postseason heartbreak and external scrutiny. The Bills have fallen in the AFC Championship game twice (2020, 2024) and suffered several agonising Divisional Round exits, often at the hands of the Kansas City Chiefs. These losses have magnified criticism of McDermott’s in-game management, particularly in high-leverage moments.

Incidents like the infamous “13 Seconds” playoff loss to the Chiefs in 2021 and a controversial late-game sequence against the Houston Texans in the 2024 season, where he called three pass plays from his own goal line, have led to intense debate about his tactical aggression. “That’s on me,” McDermott stated after the Texans loss, shouldering the blame. “We’ve got to do a better job, and that starts with me 100 percent.”

Further scrutiny arose in December 2023 when a 2019 team meeting was detailed in which McDermott, attempting to emphasise communication and teamwork, invoked the 9/11 terrorists as an example. He later apologised, stating he regretted the analogy and had not communicated his point effectively.

Adaptation and the Road Ahead

Recognising the immense burden, McDermott has consciously adapted. After calling defensive plays during the 2023 season, he handed those duties to Bobby Babich in 2024, believing he could be a more effective head coach by focusing on the entire team’s mindset. “I have to look our players in the eye and say, ‘I’m the best head coach I can be for you guys every day,'” McDermott explained.

The pressure is inextricably linked to Josh Allen’s prime. The Bills have constructed a perennial contender around him, but the championship window fuels urgency. The 2025 season saw continued success (a 12-5 record) but also familiar frustrations, including a second consecutive benching of young wide receiver Keon Coleman for disciplinary reasons and another playoff exit in the Divisional Round.

Sean McDermott: Key Facts & Record

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the biggest criticism of Sean McDermott?

The primary criticism centres on late-game decision-making in crucial playoff moments and the team’s repeated inability to advance to the Super Bowl despite having an elite quarterback in Josh Allen. His in-game management, particularly regarding clock and timeout usage, is often scrutinised after losses.

Has Sean McDermott’s job ever been in serious jeopardy?

While vocal segments of the fanbase and media have called for change after playoff disappointments, there has been no indication from the Bills’ ownership, Terry and Kim Pegula, that his job is at risk. His contract extension through 2027 and consistent regular-season success have solidified his position.

How has McDermott changed since his early days in Buffalo?

McDermott has evolved from a strict, rule-oriented disciplinarian to a more flexible leader who delegates authority and fosters personal relationships with players. He has relaxed certain team rules, empowered veteran leaders, and focused more on the holistic management of the team, notably stepping back from defensive play-calling duties.

What is the “13 Seconds” game?

It refers to the Bills’ devastating loss to the Kansas City Chiefs in the 2021 AFC Divisional Round. Buffalo took a lead with 13 seconds remaining, but the defence allowed the Chiefs to quickly advance into field goal range to tie the game. Kansas City won in overtime, a loss that became symbolic of the Bills’ playoff frustrations under McDermott.