Buffalo Bills Fire Head Coach Sean McDermott: End of an Era and Top Candidates to Replace Him

The Buffalo Bills have fired head coach Sean McDermott, signaling the end of a nine-year era that brought consistent regular-season dominance but ultimately failed to deliver a championship to Western New York.

The news was first reported Monday by NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport, who confirmed the decision via a post on X.

The move comes less than 48 hours after a devastating 33-30 overtime loss to the Denver Broncos in the AFC Divisional Round. The defeat, which saw the Bills squander a late lead and suffer from chaotic game management in the final minutes, seemingly served as the breaking point for the Bills' ownership.

Sean McDermott Coaching Record

McDermott leaves Buffalo as the second-winningest coach in franchise history (behind Marv Levy), credited with ending the team's 17-year playoff drought. However, his tenure was defined by an inability to win "the big one," with a .500 postseason record and zero Super Bowl appearances despite having an elite quarterback in Josh Allen.

Buffalo Bills Head Coach Candidates

The Bills' search has pivoted to a mix of veteran leaders, defensive tacticians, and offensive innovators. General Manager Brandon Beane is expected to cast a wide net for the following candidates:

Mike McDaniel (Former Dolphins HC): Fresh on the market after his dismissal from Miami this morning, McDaniel becomes an intriguing option. While his tenure in Miami ended with defensive struggles, his offensive genius is undeniable. Pairing his intricate run schemes and motion-heavy passing attack with Josh Allen's physical tools could create the most unstoppable offense in football if the Bills can look past his AFC East rivalry history.

Mike Tomlin (Former Steelers HC): The "dream hire" for many in the organization. Tomlin shocked the NFL world by stepping down from the Steelers earlier this week, though Pittsburgh still holds his contractual rights. Acquiring him would require a trade (likely involving draft capital), but his resume never having a losing season in 19 years and a Super Bowl ring offers the immediate culture stability and big-game experience Buffalo craves.

Jesse Minter (Chargers DC): Minter is viewed as one of the brightest young defensive minds in the game. After helping turn the Los Angeles Chargers' defense into a formidable unit under Jim Harbaugh, he brings a fresh, aggressive philosophy that contrasts with McDermott's more conservative zone schemes. If the Bills opt to maintain a defensive identity but want a modern approach, Minter is the top target.

Robert Saleh (49ers DC): Currently the Defensive Coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, Saleh has rebuilt his stock since returning to the Bay Area. He has once again orchestrated the league's top-ranked defense, proving his scheme works when he has the talent. His high energy and leadership style are well-regarded, and his second stint as a head coach could be far more successful with a quarterback like Allen already in place.

Brian Flores (Vikings DC): The former Dolphins head coach has rehabilitated his image by transforming the Minnesota Vikings' defense into a top-3 unit over the last two seasons. He knows the AFC East intimately and brings a Belichick-style discipline that the Pegulas have historically admired.

Kliff Kingsbury (Former Commanders OC): Despite being let go by Washington after a 5-12 finish in 2025, Kingsbury’s stock remains high due to his work with 2024 Rookie of the Year Jayden Daniels. He is viewed as a "quarterback whisperer" who could refine Josh Allen’s mechanics and bring the Air Raid concepts that have successfully modernized NFL offenses.

What's Next for Buffalo Bills Head Coaching Job?

The vacancy in Buffalo is arguably the most attractive in the NFL, offering a ready-made roster and a franchise quarterback. In a statement expected later today, team owner Terry Pegula is likely to address the decision and the path forward for a franchise that remains desperate for its first Lombardi Trophy.