We will be updating this coaching candidate list as the team confirms interviews providing a thumbnail sketch on each potential hire.
Buffalo Bills Insider Chris Brown provides the details. Here is his report:
This will be the comprehensive list of head coaching candidates for the Buffalo Bills as confirmed by the club. It will be updated as each interview with a candidate is validated by the team. Below we provide some details on each candidate’s coaching career including some of their most notable successes.
Candidate: Sean McDermott
Interviewed: January 4th
Age: 42
Most recent position: Defensive coordinator Carolina Panthers (2011-2016)
Accomplishments:
Had a four-year stretch (2012-2015) in which his defensive unit finished in the top 10 in total defense.
In 2015 his unit led the NFL in takeaways (39) was second in yards allowed per play, fourth against the run, sixth in points allowed and sixth in total defense in the Panthers run to the Super Bowl.
In 2013 was named Sporting News Coordinator of the Year. Defense finished second in the league, led the league in sacks (60) and finished second in points allowed per game (15.1).
The book on McDermott:
Known as a good developer of talent, McDermott has an impressive resume of defensive success. His defenses typically rank high in total defense, run defense, sacks, takeaways and points allowed.
He operates with a 4-3 defensive scheme.
McDermott has interviewed in previous offseasons for head coaching positions with the Cleveland Browns and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Coaching influences: Ron Rivera, Andy Reid, Steve Spagnuolo, Jim Johnson
Playing experience: All Atlantic-10 safety at William & Mary