Bills “Zeroing In” On Panthers DC Sean McDermott As Next Head Coach

Update:

Ian Rapoport reports that the Bills are interviewing Panthers DC Sean McDermott again on Wednesday and could have things wrapped up soon if it goes well.

• According to Rapoport, McDermott is expected to target former Chargers HC Mike McCoy to his offensive coordinator.
• Vic Carucci mentions that the “all signs point to” the Bills finalizing a five-year deal with McDermott to be their next head coach.

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Tom Pelissero reports that although the Bills and Panthers DC Sean McDermott had “very positive talks“, there are still issues that need to be sorted out before anything is finalized.

• Ian Rapoport adds that the Bills have not kept in contact with other head coaching candidates, making McDermott their clear favorite at this point.

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Vic Carucci of the Buffalo News reports that the Bills are “zeroed in” on Panthers DC Sean McDermott to be their next head coach and could have something finalized in the next day or so.

At the start of the Bills’ head-coaching search, many seemed to think it was a foregone conclusion that the team was going to hire interim HC Anthony Lynn. 

However, McDermott was reportedly very impressive during his interview and has worked his way into the mix.

Earlier in the day, Carucci said that the Bills giving their next head coach some control over the 53-man roster was still an option, despite the fact that the team retained GM Doug Whaley after firing HC Rex Ryan.

Another thing to watch for the Bills and McDermott is the possibility of him being paired with former Chargers HC Mike McCoy, as Jason La Canfora previously mentioned that this could be an option for the Bills.

The Bills have interviewed McDermott, Lynn, Cardinals OC Harold Goodwin, Eagles OC Frank Reich, and Seahawks DC Kris Richard during the head coach search.

McDermott, 42, began his NFL coaching career with the Eagles back in 1999 as a scouting coordinator. After 12 years in Philadelphia, the Panthers hired him to run their defense in 2010.

This past season, the Panthers were No. 26 in points allowed, No. 21 in total yards allowed, No. 6 in rushing yards allowed and No. 29 in passing yards allowed.

We’ll have more regarding the Bills and McDermott as the news is available.