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It appears Josh Allen didn’t use his power to prevent change in Buffalo.
A source close to the star quarterback said Allen is “appreciative” of his eight seasons with ex-coach Sean McDermott before his firing following Saturday’s 33-30 divisional-round overtime loss to the Broncos, according to the Buffalo News, but he “has faith” in owner Terry Pegula and new president of football operations Brandon Beane.
Pegula also notably sidestepped a question about Allen’s views on McDermott’s during Wednesday’s wild press conference.
“The starting quarterback will be part of the team to help select a new coach, he’s going to be working with us,” Pegula said Wednesday morning when asked of Allen’s opinion of the firing. “Anything else, his feelings, I want to keep that private. I don’t want this in Josh’s head. This was my decision. I know I didn’t answer your question, but I hope in a roundabout way, his personal opinion, I keep personal.”
Whether Allen supported, opposed or was indifferent to the move, the Buffalo News further reported that he will take an “active” role in the search.
While star players only have so much power in an organization since they don’t sign the checks, they do have some sway in these matters.
NFL organizations cater to their quarterbacks, and it’s logical to believe that Allen’s voice carries weight. One would assume that when he speaks, Pegula and Beane listen.
The Allen-McDermott combo enjoyed great regular-season success and seven straight playoff appearances, but like every Buffalo postseason trip, they ended in heartbreak.
They never solved the Chiefs, going 0-4 in the postseason against them, including the infamous 13-second debacle in 2022, suffered an embarrassing home blowout loss to the Bengals in the 2022 playoffs and the defense could not hold a four-point lead with less than five minutes against the Broncos.
It’s certainly fair to question whether the Bills had peaked under McDermott.
“If I can take you into that locker room,” Pegula said, “I felt like we hit the proverbial playoff wall, year over year. Thirteen seconds, missed field goals, the catch.
“I just sensed in that locker room, like where do we go from here with what we have? And that was the basis for my decision.”
The Bills are one of six openings and have begun the interview process, with ex-Giants head coach and former Buffalo offensive coordinator Brian Daboll among the candidates.
Other options include Colts defensive coordinator Lou Anarumo, Buffalo offensive coordinator Joe Brady and Dolphins defensive coordinator Anthony Weaver, among others.
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