Buffalo Bills coaching change: 5 most surprising things owner Terry Pegula said during his press conference to explain Sean McDermott’s firing

Buffalo Bills owner Terry Pegula held a news conference Wednesday morning to explain why he decided to fire head coach Sean McDermott and promote general manger Brandon Beane. Here are the top quotes from Pegula:

On why he decided to fire McDermott after the Bills’ OT loss to the Denver Broncos

“It was where does the leadership of the team on the field and in the locker room, where do we go from that moment — another playoff failure. That’s why I decided Sean had to leave.”

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“It was one year after another. I just couldn’t see us doing that with Sean. It’s not an easy decision trust me with that success. But what is success? Is it being in the playoffs seven years in a row with no Super Bowl.”

On seeing quarterback Josh Allen get emotional after the loss

“I saw the pain in Josh’s face at his [press conference]. And I felt his pain. I know we can can do better. And I know we will get better.”

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On the decision to draft wide receiver Keon Coleman in the 2024 second round

“I’ll address the Keon situation. The coaching staff pushed to draft Keon. I’m not saying Brandon wouldn’t have drafted him, but [Coleman] wasn’t his next choice.

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“That was Brandon being a team player and taking advice of his coaching staff who felt strongly about the player. And you know, he’s taken — for some reason — heat over it, and not saying a word about it. But I’m here to tell you the true story.”

On whether the Bills’ roster was a hindrance

“Great roster. Good coaching. No Super Bowls … how do we overcome this? One year after another. I just couldn’t see us doing that with Sean. That’s why I relieved him.”

On whether Allen supported McDermott’s firing

“The starting quarterback will be part of the team to help select a new coach. He’s going to be working with us. And anything else — his feelings — I want to keep that private. I don’t want this in Josh’s head. This was my decision. And I know I didn’t answer your question, but I did, I hope, in a roundabout way. His personal opinion, I keep personal.”