Why Sean McDermott is no longer coaching the Buffalo Bills
USA Today • • sports
Key Points:
- The Buffalo Bills will host the Detroit Lions in Week 2 at their new Highmark Stadium, marking their first home game since firing Sean McDermott after the 2025 season.
- Sean McDermott was dismissed following a divisional round playoff loss to the Denver Broncos, despite a strong 12-5 season and seven consecutive playoff appearances under his leadership.
- Bills owner Terry Pegula cited the need for new leadership to advance the team beyond repeated playoff disappointments as the primary reason for McDermott's firing.
- McDermott finished with a 98-50 regular-season record but only an 8-8 postseason record and never reached the Super Bowl during his nine-year tenure with Buffalo.
- Joe Brady, formerly the Bills' offensive coordinator, was promoted to head coach for the 2026 season and won his debut game against the Houston Texans; meanwhile, McDermott is seeking another NFL head coaching opportunity.
