Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott is starting his ninth season at the helm amid ongoing fan frustration over the team’s inability to reach the Super Bowl. While many supporters express impatience, the players themselves remain firmly behind McDermott, appreciating the leadership he provides. This season is viewed by the team as a pivotal opportunity to make a historic breakthrough.
Quarterback Josh Allen recently shared his perspective on NFL Network, highlighting McDermott’s evolving coaching style and the trust he now places in his players, which could be a factor in the team’s renewed optimism heading into the 2025 campaign.
How McDermott’s Coaching Style Has Developed Over Time
Allen explained that McDermott allows his players more freedom to be themselves on and off the field, noting that early in McDermott’s tenure as head coach, there was a stronger desire to control every aspect of the team. However, McDermott’s approach has shifted, reflecting increased confidence in his roster’s individual strengths.
“Yeah, I mean, I think he really gives his players the freedom to be themselves.”
—Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills Quarterback
Allen also discussed how McDermott’s attitude toward rookies has transformed. Initially cautious, the coach has come to embrace the idea of letting new players grow into their roles, trusting in the team’s scouting and drafting process.
“he’s learned over the course since I’ve been here of just like, you know what. Like we’re drafting these guys. Let’s let them be them. Right. Like we’re drafting them for a reason. We brought them here for a reason. But the culture, the environment, the guys that they bring into this locker room, it’s curated.”
—Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills Quarterback
What Winning the Lombardi Trophy Would Mean to Buffalo and Its Fans
When asked about the significance of finally capturing a Super Bowl victory, Allen emphasized the personal and communal motivation behind the quest. The passion of Buffalo’s fanbase, affectionately called Bills Mafia, fuels the team’s determination to succeed.
“It continues to drive us, you know, internally, I want to do it, you know, for selfish reasons. But when you have everybody in the city, in Western New York, for that matter, and Bills Mafia across the globe rooting for you, it makes you play that much harder, it makes you train that much harder, and that’s the only thing that’s on my mind during camp.”
—Josh Allen, Buffalo Bills Quarterback
With five straight AFC East titles and two appearances in the AFC Championship game, the Bills have established dominance but have so far fallen short of reaching the Lombardi. McDermott’s willingness to give rookies meaningful roles could be key to overcoming the final hurdle this season.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season’s Potential
This year’s Bills squad faces the dual challenge of maintaining their status atop the AFC East while addressing past postseason disappointments. The continued growth of young players, combined with McDermott’s refined leadership, offers a promising outlook. For Allen and the team, the ultimate goal remains clear: winning the Lombardi Trophy to reward the unwavering loyalty of fans and mark a historic milestone for Buffalo football.