Bills cite 'new structure' in firing coach McDermott, Beane promotion

by · UPI

Jan. 19 (UPI) -- The Buffalo Bills cited a new structure in Monday's announcement to fire coach Sean McDermott and to promote general manager Brandon Beane.

McDermott led the Bills to a 98-50 record over nine seasons, including their 12-5 mark in 2025-26. McDermott's Bills went 6-6 in the postseason, advancing to the AFC Championship Game once (2020-21).

"Sean has done an admirable job of leading our football team for the past 9 seasons," Bills owner Terry Pegula said in a news release. "But I feel we are in need of a new structure within our leadership to give this organization the best opportunity to take our team to the next level.

"We owe that to our players and to Bills Mafia."

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Pegula, who bought the Bills in 2014, led that group that hired McDermott in 2017. He cited McDermott helping to "change the mindset" of the franchise. The Bills failed to make the postseason for 17 consecutive years prior to McDermott's arrival.

"I respect all the work, loyalty and attention to detail he showed for this team and the community," Pegula said. "I wish Sean, Jamie and his family all the best."

Beane was promoted to president of football operations, in addition to his general manager duties.

"Brandon will oversee all facets of our football operation, including the oversight of our coaching staff," Pegula said. "I have full faith in and have witnessed Brandon's outstanding leadership style and have confidence in his abilities to lead our organization."

Beane, who will lead the coaching search, will work with Pegula and president of business operations Pete Guelli as the Bills conduct interviews to fill the vacancy.

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