McDermott described a difficult stretch after being let go days after the season ended, but said he gained clarity and ultimately valued spending more time with his family during a reflective period.
On the pivotal play, McDermott indicated the call changed the outcome, noting, “We would have won the football game. I do believe that,” and that the moment was out of his control even as it shaped perceptions of the end of his tenure. He also suggested the disputed catch involving Brandin Cooks influenced the game’s result.
Despite the abrupt ending, McDermott defended his time with Buffalo, insisting there were meaningful successes, including ending the Bills’ playoff drought and reshaping the franchise’s trajectory. He argued that his tenure was not a failure and that the organization had built a solid foundation for the future.
Looking ahead, McDermott expressed confidence in the Bills’ present and future, and in his successor, offensive coordinator Joe Brady, saying he believes Brady “is going to do a good job, and I look forward to watching him.”
For now, McDermott plans to spend the year with his family before evaluating new coaching opportunities in the next hiring cycle, noting that late-season timing limited openings. Former colleague Steve Spagnuolo added that a period of reflection and refreshment can be beneficial as a coach prepares for the next opportunity.
