NFL Rumors: Sean McDermott Criticized Bills Roster Weeks Before HC Firing

Sean McDermott’s criticism of the Buffalo Bills’ roster building came to light weeks before his dismissal as head coach. Reportedly, McDermott expressed concerns to general manager Brandon Beane and owner Terry Pegula regarding the team’s need for improvement to contend for a Super Bowl.

Key Events Leading to McDermott’s Firing

According to WGRZ’s Vic Carucci, McDermott’s critique occurred in a meeting five weeks prior to his firing. He highlighted the deficiencies that hindered the team’s success. However, his assessment did not sit well with Beane or Pegula.

Notably, the Bills’ recent performance, which ended in an overtime loss to the Denver Broncos in the divisional round, underscored these roster issues. This loss was pivotal, prompting the team’s decision to part ways with McDermott just two days later.

Analysis of the Team’s Performance

The Bills, despite ranking in the top nine for total offensive yards over the last two seasons, struggled to consistently capitalize on key moments. As the season progressed, quarterback Josh Allen faced challenges in clutch situations, reflecting the larger concerns surrounding the team’s composition.

• Key Issues:
• Need for a reliable No. 1 receiver
• Limited depth in the roster

This lack of depth was a concern that Beane defended after the 2025 draft, emphasizing the team’s strategic choices. Both McDermott’s firing and the Bills’ playoff exit highlight profound challenges ahead.

Beane’s New Role and Future Outlook

In a statement regarding McDermott’s termination, Pegula announced that Beane would be promoted. He will now oversee all aspects of football operations, including the coaching staff. This responsibility propels the search for the Bills’ next head coach into high gear.

As Beane prepares for the upcoming offseason, he must quickly navigate a competitive landscape. Among the challenges include securing a new head coach while also addressing the team’s roster weaknesses in the 2026 NFL Draft. The Bills hold seven picks, beginning at No. 26, which will be pivotal for future success.

Head Coaching Candidates

Four potential candidates are already in the mix, including notable names such as:

• John Harbaugh (New York Giants)
• Kevin Stefanski (Atlanta Falcons)

This context emphasizes the urgency for Beane to act in both securing a new coach and refocusing team strategy for the upcoming season.