Bills Petition: Reinstate Sean McDermott – Signature Count

Bills Petition: Reinstate Sean McDermott – Signature Count

January 24, 2026 discoverhiddenusacom Sports

The recent firing of Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott has sparked a significant reaction from the team’s fanbase, culminating in a petition effort to reinstate him. As of Friday evening, a change.org petition launched on January 19th had garnered 62,395 signatures.

A Legacy Interrupted

Maria Maisonet, a lifelong Bills fan of over 40 years, initiated the petition, expressing heartbreak and bafflement at the decision to remove McDermott. She highlighted his strategic acumen and commitment to the Buffalo community as key reasons for her advocacy.

Turning the Tide in Buffalo

McDermott arrived in Buffalo in 2017, ending a 17-year playoff drought in his first season. He subsequently led the Bills to seven consecutive playoff appearances, including five straight AFC East titles from 2020-2024. This sustained success represents a dramatic turnaround for a franchise long accustomed to postseason absence.

Did You Know? Sean McDermott led the Buffalo Bills to the playoffs in eight of his nine seasons as head coach, accounting for nearly 40 percent of the franchise’s 21 playoff appearances since the 1970 AFL-NFL merger.

Playoff Heartbreak and a Difficult Decision

Despite the regular season success, McDermott’s teams were unable to reach the Super Bowl, falling short in the AFC Championship Game in both 2020 and 2024 to the Kansas City Chiefs. The Bills’ 2025 season concluded with a 33-30 overtime loss to the Denver Broncos in the AFC Divisional Round, leading to McDermott’s dismissal two days later.

A Successful Tenure, By the Numbers

Throughout his tenure, McDermott compiled a 98-50 record, with an 8-8 mark in the playoffs. He is considered the Bills’ most successful coach since Marv Levy, who guided the team to four consecutive AFC championships from 1990-1993.

The Aftermath and Questions Raised

Owner Terry Pegula and newly promoted president of football operations and general manager Brandon Beane addressed the decision publicly, stating the team had “hit the proverbial playoff wall” and a change was necessary. The situation is further complicated by the fact that Beane, who arrived in 2017, received a promotion despite personnel decisions that have been criticized.

Expert Insight: The decision to elevate Brandon Beane alongside the firing of Sean McDermott introduces a layer of complexity. While the stated rationale centers on breaking a perceived playoff ceiling, the simultaneous promotion of a general manager whose personnel decisions have faced scrutiny raises questions about the long-term strategic vision for the franchise.

Former players, including safety Damar Hamlin and offensive tackle Dion Dawkins, have publicly expressed well wishes to McDermott following his departure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was Sean McDermott fired?

Owner Terry Pegula stated the team had “hit the proverbial playoff wall” and needed a change.

How successful was Sean McDermott as the Bills’ coach?

McDermott went 98-50 overall and led the Bills to seven playoff appearances, including five consecutive AFC East titles. He is considered the most successful Bills coach since Marv Levy.

What is the status of Brandon Beane?

Brandon Beane was promoted to president of football operations and general manager following McDermott’s firing.

What impact will this coaching change have on the Bills’ future performance and their pursuit of a Super Bowl title?