The Buffalo Bills made a seismic move this week, parting ways with head coach Sean McDermott in a decision that sent shockwaves through the locker room-and across the NFL. McDermott, who helped guide the Bills out of a long-standing playoff drought and into perennial contention, clearly left a lasting impression on his players, both past and present. And they’re not staying silent about it.
From heartfelt farewells to outright frustration, current and former Bills alike took to social media to voice their reactions. If there was any doubt about how McDermott was viewed inside the building, these messages made one thing clear: this wasn’t just a coach getting fired-it was a leader being removed.
Dion Dawkins: “You Are Truly One of Them Ones”
Left tackle Dion Dawkins, one of the emotional leaders of the team, didn’t hold back. His tribute to McDermott included a carousel of images-moments of joy, unity, and celebration between player and coach. But it was his words that really drove it home:
“True leader amongst a world full of alphas’s, Honored and Truly Best to learn under our Time. McDeezzyyyy You Are Truly One Of them Ones. Until The Grass Meets us Again 💔”
Dawkins has always worn his heart on his sleeve, and this was no different. His message painted McDermott not just as a tactician, but as a mentor and motivator who earned the respect of his locker room.
Damar Hamlin: “A Trusted Leader of Men”
Safety Damar Hamlin, whose journey back to the field has been one of the most inspiring stories in recent memory, also showed gratitude:
“💔💔💔 A trust leader of men. Thank you for everything!
On & beyond the field. We love you coach.
🫶🏾🫶🏾🫶🏾”
Hamlin’s words carried weight-not just because of his personal story, but because of the bond he clearly felt with McDermott, who stood by him during the most difficult moment of his life.
Defensive Line Speaks Loudest
If there’s a position group that’s been most vocal, it’s the defensive line. Veteran DT Jordan Phillips didn’t mince words:
“This shit here is so stupid honestly sickening. The best coach I’ve ever been around.”
Shaq Lawson echoed the sentiment:
“Damn shit don’t make sense. He changed the whole culture.”
That phrase-changed the whole culture-isn’t just lip service. McDermott helped reshape the identity of the Bills, turning them from a team stuck in mediocrity to one that consistently competed in January. For players like Phillips and Lawson, who’ve lived through the ups and downs, this decision clearly stings.
Quiet Disbelief and Subtle Jabs
Others kept it brief but telling. Cornerback Taron Johnson simply posted “smh,” while DT DaQuan Jones wrote:
“Don’t make sense but ya got what ya wanted.”
That last line hints at a growing divide between players and parts of the fan base or front office. The frustration isn’t just about losing a coach-it’s about feeling like a foundational piece was removed without justification.
Former Bills Weigh In
The reaction wasn’t limited to the current roster. Former players who spent time under McDermott also chimed in, and their respect for him was just as strong.
Former corner Levi Wallace wrote:
“Man my dog turned the whole organization around. One of the best I’ve been around.”
Isaiah McKenzie, a fan favorite during his time in Buffalo, posted photos with a simple “Thank You” and salute emoji. Former DT Eli Ankou didn’t hold back either:
“Scapegoat [ass] firing. Like bro what lmao”
It’s not uncommon for ex-players to speak freely, but the consistency of the message-McDermott was respected, valued, and appreciated-adds weight to the outcry.
LeSean McCoy Gets Spicy
Former Bills running back LeSean McCoy brought a little fire to the conversation, questioning the decision to keep the general manager while letting go of the head coach:
“Wait wait so the GM stays after all these non talented rosters and absolutely NO HELP for Josh on offense or defense lol only in the NFL”
McCoy’s take might be a little over the top-especially considering the Bills had the NFL’s leading rusher this season-but it speaks to a larger frustration. In his view, McDermott was far from the problem.
From the Booth and Beyond
Eric Wood, who played under McDermott and now serves as the team’s radio color analyst, took a more measured approach:
“Sean McDermott was an incredible hire for the Bills when he took over in 2017. I’m grateful for all he did for the organization. Sean is a great man and will be a great hire for another organization and I hate we couldn’t get over the hump with him as HC in Buffalo.”
Wood’s words reflect what many in the Bills community are feeling-disappointment that the journey didn’t end in a Super Bowl, but deep appreciation for how far the team came under McDermott’s leadership.
Wade Phillips: A Familiar Feeling
Even former Bills head coach Wade Phillips, who was let go after a playoff appearance of his own, couldn’t help but weigh in with a bit of a wink:
“I was VERY surprised the Bills fired their Head Coach after a playoff loss. Wade Phillips”
That tweet doesn’t need much interpretation. Phillips has been there. And he knows how it feels to be shown the door after doing what many would consider a good job.
What This All Tells Us
The reaction to McDermott’s firing isn’t just about wins and losses-it’s about leadership, culture, and connection. The players’ words don’t sound like a locker room relieved to move on. They sound like a group stunned, saddened, and in some cases, angry.
McDermott may not have brought a Lombardi Trophy to Buffalo, but he brought stability, belief, and a new standard. And judging by the flood of messages from players past and present, that legacy means something.
Now, with the head coach gone and questions swirling about the direction of the franchise, all eyes turn to the next chapter-and eventually, to Josh Allen, whose voice in this moment may end up being the most telling of them all.