Bills Owner Terry Pegula Explains Sean McDermott’s Firing: Full Transcript
Buffalo Bills owner Terry Pegula addressed the media on Wednesday to clarify his recent decision to fire head coach Sean McDermott. This marked Pegula’s first press conference in almost six years. He was accompanied by Brandon Beane, the team’s President of Football Operations and General Manager.
Terry Pegula’s Insights on Sean McDermott’s Departure
Pegula began by expressing gratitude towards McDermott for his nine years of service to the team. He highlighted McDermott’s role in ending the Bills’ playoff drought and improving the team’s competitive status since taking over in 2017.
- Pegula noted that the decision to replace McDermott stemmed from the team’s performance in a recent game against Denver.
- He emphasized the emotional state of quarterback Josh Allen and the overall team after the loss, which contributed to his decision-making process.
Evaluating Team Performance
Pegula reflected on the team’s playoff history, sharing statistics indicating their performance over the last seven years:
| Year | Playoff Seed Performance |
|---|---|
| 2017-2023 | 5-2-3, 2-2-2-6 |
The owner recognized that such playoff success reflects a solid organizational foundation and good player contributions. He noted that despite some player missteps, the team had consistently attracted talent.
The Decision-Making Process
Pegula clarified misconceptions regarding the firing being linked to a single officiating decision. He affirmed that the decision was based on an overall assessment of leadership in the locker room following several playoff disappointments.
When asked about any conversations with Allen concerning McDermott’s dismissal, Pegula confirmed that Allen had no input in the final decision but acknowledged their dialogue post-game.
Looking Ahead: Coaching Search and Future Plans
Pegula expressed optimism for the upcoming coaching search, noting that the position is highly desirable and that they have already attracted significant interest. He reiterated the team’s goal of winning a Super Bowl, acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead.
As he closed the press conference, Pegula reaffirmed his commitment to transparency moving forward, indicating a potential increase in his media presence and communication with fans.
