In 2017, when Sean McDermott took over as head coach of the Buffalo Bills, he prioritized building a culture rooted in daily self-improvement. While similar commitments had been made by previous coaches, McDermott set himself apart with a clear vision and a structured plan to bring it to life.
For years, the franchise had struggled with instability, cycling through multiple head coaches since the early 2000s, none of whom had achieved lasting success. Understanding that real change required more than just a new strategy, McDermott worked to reshape the team’s mindset, fostering a culture that would inspire players and create a strong foundation for the future.
Three years into McDermott’s tenure, his vision materialized. The Bills secured 10 wins for the first time in decades and clinched a playoff berth with two games left in the season. This was a monumental achievement, as Buffalo had long struggled to reach double-digit wins, let alone secure a postseason spot with games to spare.
McDermott expressed his gratitude for being part of the team and acknowledged that while they had made significant progress, there was still work to be done. His humility and recognition of the long journey ahead resonated with fans and players alike, reinforcing the idea that success was not a one-time occurrence but a continuous process. The progress made in those three years was not accidental—it was the result of meticulous planning, disciplined execution, and a commitment to excellence.
Sean McDermott (NFL)Sean McDermott’s Leadership – Transforming the Bills into a Resilient Playoff Team
The Bills made the playoffs without relying on help from other AFC teams, a stark contrast from their 2017 playoff run, which required assistance from the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 17. Players like Tre’Davious White emphasized the significance of breaking long-standing barriers and rewriting the franchise’s history with determination and resilience.
The team had overcome numerous obstacles throughout the season, demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure and execute in critical moments. This independence in securing a postseason spot reflected the growth and maturity of the team, highlighting their ability to control their own destiny. For a franchise that had been on the outside looking in for so long, this was an immense step forward and a testament to McDermott’s leadership.
For nearly two decades, the Bills struggled to sustain success. They had moments of promise but could never build on them. McDermott made tough yet necessary roster decisions, such as trading key players like Sammy Watkins and Ronald Darby, to build a team capable of long-term competitiveness. These decisions were not always popular with fans, but they were essential for establishing a new identity.
His bold moves helped establish a stronger foundation, one that prioritized team chemistry, discipline, and work ethic over short-term gains. By focusing on players who fit his vision, McDermott slowly but surely transformed the Bills from a team that lacked direction into one with a clear identity. The difficult choices he made early on setting the stage for the sustained success the team would later achieve.
McDermott earned the respect of both current and former players for his level-headed and consistent leadership. His ability to provide stability in an unpredictable league reassured players and contributed to the team’s growing success. The NFL is known for its volatility—coaching changes, roster turnover, and injuries can derail even the most promising teams.
McDermott’s ability to remain calm and composed in all situations provided a sense of security for his players. His focus on hard work and camaraderie shaped the team’s culture, fostering an environment where players trusted one another and played for the team rather than individual accolades. His steady presence in the locker room became a defining characteristic of the Bills under his leadership, setting the tone for years to come.
Sean McDermott (NFL)Brandon Beane and Sean McDermott Building a Culture of Hard Work and Resilience
General Manager Brandon Beane worked alongside McDermott to construct a competitive roster. New acquisitions, including veteran Frank Gore, recognized Buffalo’s strong team culture. Gore likened it to his winning experience in San Francisco, emphasizing the importance of trust and teamwork. This sentiment was echoed by other players who joined the Bills, many of whom cited the positive culture as a key factor in their decision.
Beane and McDermott worked in tandem to identify players who not only had talent but also embodied the values they wanted in the locker room. This approach paid dividends, as the Bills assembled a roster filled with hard-working, dedicated individuals who were willing to put the team first. The emphasis on culture and character helped create a team that was resilient, disciplined, and fully bought into McDermott’s vision.
Rather than relying on star players, McDermott built a team of hard workers who embodied his philosophy. The Bills had some talented individuals, but what set them apart was their collective work ethic. Tight end Lee Smith, who had never reached the playoffs in eight previous seasons, acknowledged the special nature of this group, citing the contributions of players, coaches, and management.
The Bills’ roster was filled with players who were overlooked or undervalued by other teams, yet under McDermott’s leadership, they thrived. His ability to identify and develop talent allowed the team to compete at a high level despite not having as many high-profile names as other contenders. This approach not only made the team successful but also created a sense of unity and purpose that was evident on the field.
The Bills frequently found themselves in close games, which strengthened their resilience. Unlike past teams that crumbled under pressure, McDermott’s squad embraced adversity. Their ability to finish strong in tight contests, especially on defense, was evident in their crucial victory over the Steelers. Players like Jordan Phillips believed they had been dominant all season and were confident in their playoff potential.
The team’s ability to perform in high-pressure situations was a direct result of McDermott’s emphasis on mental toughness. By instilling a belief that they could overcome any challenge, he prepared his players for the rigors of postseason football. This mental fortitude became one of the defining traits of the Bills, setting them apart from previous iterations of the team.
Sean McDermott (NFL)Sean McDermott Inspiring the Bills to Relentlessly Pursue Excellence and Championship Success
McDermott instilled a mindset of continuous improvement in his players. By labeling the season ‘The Climb,’ he reinforced the idea that success required persistent effort. Making the playoffs was just one step in their journey toward becoming championship contenders. The Bills knew that simply qualifying for the postseason was not enough—they wanted to take the next step and compete for a Super Bowl. McDermott’s message was clear: the work was far from over.
His players embraced this mentality, refusing to become complacent and continuing to push themselves to be better each day. This relentless pursuit of excellence became a defining characteristic of the team and set the stage for even greater achievements in the future.
While outside observers questioned whether the Bills were ready to compete at the highest level, the team remained focused. Players such as Josh Allen and Frank Gore emphasized that simply making the playoffs was not enough—they were determined to push further and strive for a Super Bowl victory.
McDermott had built a team that was not only talented but also mentally and physically prepared for the challenges ahead. With a strong foundation in place, the Bills were poised to take the next step and establish themselves as perennial contenders. The journey was far from over, but with McDermott leading the way, the future looked brighter than ever for the Buffalo Bills.
