Bills Owner Confident in Team’s Potential After Playoff Disappointment
Buffalo Bills owner Terry Pegula made a significant decision to part ways with head coach Sean McDermott after the team’s playoff exit. This decision came immediately following a heartbreaking 33-30 overtime loss to the Denver Broncos in the divisional playoffs.
Reasons Behind McDermott’s Firing
Pegula expressed that the team’s performance and emotional state played a crucial role in his decision. He particularly noted the visible pain on quarterback Josh Allen’s face in the locker room and during his press conference post-loss. “I know we can do better. And I know we will get better,” he affirmed.
Reflection on Past Playoff Performance
During the news conference, Pegula reflected on several of the Bills’ playoff defeats over the last nine seasons under McDermott’s leadership. “It was another playoff failure,” he explained, pointing to the need for a change in leadership. Pegula highlighted that despite McDermott’s effort, the franchise had not yet secured a Super Bowl appearance, with the team falling short in the AFC title game twice against Kansas City.
- Sean McDermott’s record with the Bills: 98 wins, 50 losses in the regular season.
- Seven consecutive seasons with double-digit wins.
- Playoff drought ended in 2017; team reached playoffs in eight of nine seasons.
- All three recent playoff losses were by three points.
Coaching Search Initiatives
With McDermott’s departure, General Manager Brandon Beane, now also serving as the president of football operations, will lead the search for a new head coach. The Bills have already begun interviews with various candidates. Notable interviews include:
- Brian Daboll, former Giants coach and current offensive coordinator.
- Anthony Lynn, Commanders running backs coach, who briefly served as the Bills’ interim coach in 2016.
- Joe Brady, current offensive coordinator of the Bills.
Pegula confirmed that while Josh Allen had no role in the decision to fire McDermott, he will participate in the coaching selection process. Pegula recognized McDermott’s contributions to transforming the team from a 17-season playoff drought to a competitive franchise. “Sean has definitely left the Buffalo Bills in a better place than when he arrived in 2017,” Pegula remarked.
Conclusion
The Bills face a pivotal offseason as they look to improve following the recent playoff disappointments. The ownership is hopeful that a new head coach will guide the team toward future successes, including a long-awaited Super Bowl appearance.
