ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — In his eighth season leading the Buffalo Bills, coach Sean McDermott is showcasing a lighter and more playful side to his personality. From launching “Dad Joke Fridays” to goofing around on the field with quarterback Josh Allen to celebrate the team’s recent achievement of clinching the AFC East, McDermott’s approach seems to embrace a fresh dynamic.
Recently, during a Zoom meeting with reporters, McDermott lightheartedly shared details about a screensaver on his computer that depicts an alpaca set against a scenic backdrop. When questioned about it, he humorously struggled to remember the name of the animal, referring to it as a “friendly reminder” of his alpaca at home.
This more jovial persona marks a notable shift from the serious, process-oriented coach who took the reins of the Bills back in 2017. While McDermott has typically maintained a cordial demeanor, he’s often been tight-lipped about significant coaching changes, such as the departure of defensive coordinator Leslie Frazier after the 2022 season. Additionally, he once had to backtrack on comments related to receiver Stefon Diggs missing a mandatory practice earlier this year.
Although McDermott may not reach the vivid persona of his predecessor Rex Ryan—known for his dramatic antics, including eating a dog biscuit during a training camp promotion—this newfound expressiveness has certainly resonated with the players. As they gear up for a match against the Los Angeles Rams, currently standing at 10-2, his players are taking notice.
