Josh Allen Says He Still Thinks About Sean McDermott's Firing, Bills' Loss to Broncos 'All the Time'

Buffalo Bills quarterback Josh Allen admitted this week that he still carries the weight of the firing of longtime head coach Sean McDermott with him.

In an interview with Michael Silver of The Athletic, Allen suggested that he places blame on himself for McDermott's firing after the Bills' heartbreaking, overtime loss to the Denver Broncos in the AFC Divisional Round of the playoffs.

"I think about that all the time," Allen said. "There are certain plays throughout the game—and that's going to be every game—where you're like, 'I could have done more.' And I always feel like I can do more."

Allen threw two interceptions and lost two fumbles in that game, but he also threw for 283 yards and three touchdowns, and rushed for 66 yards on the road against arguably the best defense in football.

Ultimately, Denver prevailed 33-30 in OT, sending it to the AFC Championship Game where it fell to the New England Patriots.

Until now, McDermott was the only head coach Allen had never known at the NFL level, dating back to when the Bills selected him seventh overall in the 2018 NFL draft.

After missing the playoffs in Allen's rookie season, the Bills reeled off seven consecutive postseason appearances. However, they were never able to make it past the AFC Championship Game under McDermott.

While McDermott's regular-season success was undeniable with a 98-50 record over nine seasons, his 8-8 playoff mark with no Super Bowl appearances was ultimately his undoing.

McDermott was replaced by Joe Brady, who was promoted from offensive coordinator, ensuring that there will be continuity between Allen and the head coach despite the change.

With a new head coach, a new stadium and a new WR1 in DJ Moore, the Bills enter the 2026 season with plenty of optimism that they can finally get over the hump.