Bills Coach Reflects on Season and Future Optimism
ORCHARD PARK, N.Y. — Despite another season ending without a trip to the Super Bowl, Bills head coach Sean McDermott remains optimistic about the future. As he wrapped up the season on Thursday, McDermott emphasized that the potential for future success is very much alive, bolstered by the talent of quarterback Josh Allen and the experience gained by a younger, restructured team.
The Bills recently concluded their season with a narrow 32-29 defeat in the AFC Championship game against the Kansas City Chiefs. However, this season demonstrated that Buffalo had surpassed lower expectations, clinching 13 regular-season victories and securing their fifth consecutive division title. McDermott credits the team’s sustained achievement and evolution, stating that they’ve made the playoffs seven times in the last eight years and reached the divisional round for five straight years.
During his end-of-season press conference, McDermott expressed confidence in the team’s identity despite their struggles to transition regular-season success into deep playoff runs. “I’d rather be in the position we’re in, where we’re continually knocking on the door,” he commented, adding that persistence in doing the right things will eventually lead to success.
However, it’s important to note that McDermott’s optimism does not equate to complacency. He acknowledged, “No one in this building, myself included, is comfortable or content with where we’re at. What’s left is to go win a world championship, which is a lofty goal, but one that we pursue relentlessly.” The Bills have set a unique record as the first team to win 11 or more games for five consecutive seasons without securing a Super Bowl appearance. They’ve faced the Chiefs four times in elimination rounds, including two conference title games and a loss to Cincinnati in 2022’s divisional round.
General manager Brandon Beane also expressed confidence in the team’s positioning to contend with Kansas City. He acknowledged the Chiefs’ accomplishments but stated, “The entire league is chasing them. And we’re right there. I don’t know what else you expect to do other than if you think we should blow the roster up or strip it down.” He emphasized that this roster is not comprised of aging players needing a complete overhaul, but a solid foundation that he believes many others would envy.
As the offseason approaches, the Bills find themselves in a more favorable situation compared to the previous year when salary cap issues forced them to release a significant portion of their leadership. This year, they anticipate a workable salary cap situation, contingent on the NFL’s decisions for the upcoming season. Although Beane does not plan to make substantial purchases during free agency, he will need to save resources for contract renewals for key players like receiver Khalil Shakir, running back James Cook, and linebacker Terrel Bernard.
The possibility of releasing veteran edge rusher Von Miller to create over $8 million in cap space is an option, though Beane remains open to finding innovative solutions to keep the near 36-year-old athlete on the team, especially after Miller took a significant pay reduction last year.
In a lengthy discussion, both Beane and McDermott addressed a variety of topics regarding team performance and player assessments. Beane expressed disappointment concerning tight end Dalton Kincaid’s decline in performance in his second season but noted that a key fourth-down pass from Allen that slipped through Kincaid’s fingers in a crucial moment against Kansas City was not the sole reason for their loss.
Additionally, linebacker Matt Milano is expected to make a full recovery after injuries kept him sidelined for much of the last two seasons. Beane conveyed a lack of concern over Milano’s long-term health, promising tailored plans to strengthen and protect players against injuries.
When discussing safety Damar Hamlin, Beane recognized his remarkable comeback story following his cardiac arrest during a game in January 2023. Beane shared immense pride in Hamlin, highlighting that contract matters would be handled by appropriate channels but affirming his support for the player.
Finally, McDermott confirmed that special teams coordinator Matthew Smiley would remain with the organization despite some challenges during the season. McDermott remarked on the necessity of learning from past mistakes, ensuring Smiley will grow from his experiences moving forward.
