There were some Buffalo Bills fans who were clamoring for this move.
But it sounds like in the locker room, the Sean McDermott firing came by surprise.
This is what NFL Network's Cameron Wolfe shared on Monday morning shortly after the news broke:
Talked to 3 Bills players this morning who are just learning news HC Sean McDermott was fired after we all did. They were all shocked.
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) January 19, 2026
One text, “WTF.”
MORE: Why Bills had no choice but to fire Sean McDermott
There's no indication of who the players are, but that's not really the point.
It captures the mood of a locker room that knows that year in and year out, they've put winning teams on the field.
Those inside the building don't always view coaching staffs the same way outsiders do. They see how hard everyone works toward a common goal. They see how they've got each others' backs.
MORE: Exploring 5 wild Broncos QB options to replace Bo Nix
McDermott stood up for the Bills in a major way after Saturday's loss to Denver, criticizing the officials and emphasizing how proud he was of his team.
That may not carry a ton of weight with the fanbase, but it carries a ton of weight with the players.
The Bills are taking a risk in this move. They've got to get what they do next right, because otherwise it could have lasting negative impacts.
More NFL news:
- Browns can draft the brother of a Cavs' NBA star
- Nick Foles offers advice to Broncos after Bo Nix injury
- New perspective on Tua Tagovailoa and his head injuries
- Aaron Rodgers' future with the Steelers has been decided
- John Harbaugh should already have a $100 million regret
- This throw is why the Bears drafted Caleb Williams 1st overall