A significant coaching shake-up in Western New York has left veteran players on the Bills feeling unsettled.
On Monday morning, shortly after it was announced that the Bills would be parting ways with head coach Sean McDermott after nine seasons, defensive tackle Jordan Phillips expressed his discontent on Instagram.
“This is so stupid and honestly disgusting,” the 33-year-old Phillips stated on his Instagram Story. “He’s the best coach I’ve ever had.”
Phillips, who is currently in his third stint with the Bills, emphasized McDermott’s capabilities. In another post from the WNYorker account, he highlighted the coach’s contributions.
Safety Damar Hamlin also shared his feelings on social media, tweeting three heartbroken emojis in response to the news. He later added, “A true leader of men. Thank you for everything! On the field and off the field. We love you Coach.”
This development came just two days after the Bills faced yet another playoff disappointment, falling to an AFC rival. Buffalo, which has struggled against Kansas City in the postseason, lost in the regional round to the Broncos, 33-30, in overtime on Saturday.
Quarterback Josh Allen, who has reached the playoffs seven times in eight years under McDermott, shouldered the blame for the defeat.
During his tenure, McDermott recorded a regular-season record of 98-50 and went 8-8 in playoff games.
With McDermott’s departure, the Bills have become the eighth team seeking a head coach this hiring season, joining the ranks of the Steelers, Ravens, Browns, Titans, Dolphins, Cardinals, and Raiders.
Following his firing, teams like the Giants and Falcons have already brought in coaches John Harbaugh and Kevin Stefanski.
Brian Daboll, who was let go by the Giants midway through his fourth season, is rumored to still be in contention for head coaching positions even after McDermott’s dismissal. Reports indicate that Daboll, who served as the Bills’ offensive coordinator for four years before becoming the Giants’ head coach in 2022, left a lasting impact during his time in Buffalo, especially after the team drafted Allen in 2018.
