As the 2026 NFL season kicks off, the Buffalo Bills are embracing a new era. After nine seasons under Sean McDermott, the franchise made a bold change, parting ways with the coach following a heartbreaking overtime loss to the Denver Broncos in the divisional round. Yet, even from the outside, McDermott remains a steadfast believer in his former team's championship potential.
A Vote of Confidence from a Former Leader
Speaking on The Rich Eisen Show on September 4, 2026, McDermott expressed unwavering faith in the Bills' roster construction under general manager Brandon Beane. "With what they've done, the moves that Brandon Beane has made, and the activity they've had on the roster over the last X amount of months, I think, has been very important," McDermott said. "I don't see why you wouldn't bet on them. The games have to be played, right? It's one thing on paper, but it's another thing to play the games."
The Bills have been perennial contenders in the AFC, led by quarterback Josh Allen, but have fallen short of the Super Bowl year after year. McDermott's endorsement comes at a crucial time, as the team transitions to new leadership. His belief is not just sentimental; it's rooted in the tangible upgrades Beane has made, from offensive line reinforcements to defensive playmakers.
Bills-Rams Super Bowl Prediction
When Eisen pressed for a specific Super Bowl prediction, McDermott didn't hesitate. "It'll be Bills-Rams," he declared, envisioning a rematch of their Week 5 Monday night showdown. The Los Angeles Rams, led by quarterback Matthew Stafford and a dynamic defense, have emerged as NFC frontrunners. A Bills-Rams Super Bowl would be a marquee matchup, pitting two elite quarterbacks and high-powered offenses against each other.
Beyond the on-field analysis, McDermott's comments reflect a deep emotional connection to Buffalo. "People ask me all the time, 'Hey, do you still root for your old team?' And I said, 'Why wouldn't I?' The impact that that team, that building, and that community had on me and my family, we'll remember that for the rest of our lives," he said, his voice carrying the weight of nine years of memories. "The wins and losses are important, but it's the impact you leave, or that is left on people and the fan base, that's the real part of sports."
A Coaching Carousel Looms
McDermott's well-wishes for the Bills may be short-lived, as he is widely expected to return to coaching in 2027. With 10 head-coaching vacancies filled after the 2025 season, the NFL's coaching carousel is always spinning. McDermott's track record—a 91-58 regular-season record and multiple AFC East titles—makes him a prime candidate for any opening, potentially even within the AFC East if the New York Jets or Miami Dolphins make a change.
For now, though, McDermott is content to watch from afar, pulling for the team he helped build. His prediction adds another layer of intrigue to the 2026 season. Will Josh Allen finally hoist the Lombardi Trophy? Can the Bills overcome years of playoff heartbreak? As McDermott wisely noted, "It's one thing on paper, but it's another thing to play the games."
As the Vulius NFL Analysis Desk has noted, the Bills' window is far from closed, and with a favorable schedule, they are positioned to make a deep run. The Rams, meanwhile, have reloaded around Stafford, making them a formidable NFC representative. If McDermott's prophecy comes true, the Super Bowl would be a clash of titans—and a fitting tribute to the coach who started it all in Buffalo.
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