Sean McDermott’s Ascent Towards Buffalo Bills History
Sean McDermott is rapidly solidifying his legacy with the Buffalo Bills, as he is on track to surpass Marv Levy as the franchise’s all-time winningest head coach. With 100 victories already under his belt, McDermott could eclipse Levy’s record as early as the 2027 season.
From Struggles to Triumphs
In just a week, the narrative surrounding the Bills shifted dramatically. Following a disheartening loss to the Miami Dolphins, speculation about McDermott’s job security intensified. The prospect of a playoff exit loomed large, leading many to question whether the head coach would remain at the helm. However, the recent dominant win against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers has altered that discourse—at least momentarily.
The victory marked a significant milestone for McDermott, as it was his 100th win, including playoff games, since he took over in 2017. Thanks largely to the explosive play of quarterback Josh Allen, McDermott now stands just 23 wins shy of the legendary Marv Levy. Reflecting on this achievement, McDermott expressed gratitude, stating, “I told [PR chief] Derek [Boyko], I’m just trying to get one! Just been trying to get one since I came into this league. … I’m very grateful. Very grateful.”
Navigating Challenges Amid Success
Despite his accomplishments, McDermott faces scrutiny. Critics point to his cautious approach with younger players and a tendency to stick with veterans, which at times hampers the team’s potential. Additionally, he is working to effectively channel the talent and temperament of rising star receiver Keon Coleman, who is in his second season.
However, it’s important to contextualize McDermott’s success. He achieved 100 wins faster than contemporaries Sean McVay (96 wins with the Los Angeles Rams) and Kyle Shanahan (85 wins with the San Francisco 49ers).
Currently, only five active coaches share the distinction of reaching 100 wins: Andy Reid (Chiefs), Mike Tomlin (Steelers), Sean Payton (Broncos), John Harbaugh (Ravens), and Pete Carroll (Raiders). With continued postseason success, McDermott could very well extend his tenure long enough to become the winningest coach in Bills history, potentially achieving this feat during the 2027 regular season.
The Road Ahead for McDermott and the Bills
As McDermott continues to navigate the pressures of the NFL, his journey underscores a broader narrative of resilience and ambition. The Bills are now positioned to capitalize on their recent momentum as they aim for a successful season. The upcoming games will be crucial, not only for the team’s playoff aspirations but also for McDermott’s legacy in the annals of the franchise.
