Sean McDermott has had a wildly successful career as the head coach of the Buffalo Bills. The only thing missing from his résumé is the coveted Lombardi Trophy.
Since joining the Bills organization in 2017, McDermott has revitalized a franchise that struggled for decades to find consistent success. Through his disciplined approach, defensive expertise, and strong leadership, he’s helped make the Bills perennial contenders.
Here’s a look at McDermott’s career, accomplishments, and journey to Buffalo.
Sean McDermott’s Early NFL Stints With Philadelphia Eagles, Carolina Panthers
McDermott began his NFL coaching journey with the Philadelphia Eagles in 1999 as a scouting administrative coordinator — the same season and team that Andy Reid landed his first job as a head coach.
Over the next decade, he shot up the ladder, eventually becoming the Eagles’ defensive coordinator in 2009. Under McDermott’s guidance, Philadelphia’s defense ranked among the league’s top units.
In 2011, McDermott took over as defensive coordinator for the Carolina Panthers. During his six seasons in Charlotte, N.C., he crafted one of the NFL’s most feared defenses with help from All-Pro defenders Luke Kuechly, Thomas Davis, and Josh Norman. The pinnacle of McDermott’s success in Carolina was the Panthers’ 2015 Super Bowl appearance when his unit anchored a team that went 15-1 during the regular season.
Buffalo Bills Era: Building a Winner
With McDermott’s hiring in 2017, the Bills ushered in a new era for the franchise. He immediately ended Buffalo’s 17-year playoff drought and earned praise for his culture-changing leadership. The team has reached the playoffs in seven of McDermott’s first eight seasons, including a trip to the AFC Championship Game in 2020.
Known for his defensive-minded approach, McDermott has also been instrumental in developing MVP candidate Josh Allen. Alongside general manager Brandon Beane, McDermott has built a well-rounded roster that keeps Buffalo competitive, relevant, and always in contention.
Bills Postseason Record vs. Chiefs Under McDermott
As they have been to many opponents in the postseason, the Kansas City Chiefs are a thorn in the Bills’ side during McDermott’s tenure.
Buffalo has failed to clear the Kansas City hurdle in three attempts since 2021. The most recent upset was a narrow three-point loss in the 2023 Divisional Round. Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce, and Co. have just been too much for the Bills to handle.
Can McDermott and the Bills finally get the monkey off their back? It’s just a matter of time before we’ll know that answer with the two facing off again in the AFC Championship Game of the 2024-25 playoffs.
What Is McDermott’s Record Among Active NFL Head Coaches?
As of the 2024 season, McDermott’s coaching record stands at an impressive 93-51 — the winningest record among active head coaches with eight seasons or less. His playoff record includes several key victories, further solidifying his reputation as one of the NFL’s elite coaches.
