Sean McDermott's Success and Achievements in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: May 20, 2026

A success timeline featuring the most significant achievements of Sean McDermott.

Sean McDermott is an American football coach who was the head coach of the Buffalo Bills (2017-2026). He started his NFL coaching career with the Philadelphia Eagles in 2001, eventually becoming their defensive coordinator (2009-2010). He then served as the defensive coordinator for the Carolina Panthers (2011-2016), reaching Super Bowl 50. In 2017, McDermott became the head coach of the Buffalo Bills.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

1992: All-Southeastern Pennsylvania

In 1992, Sean McDermott was named All-Southeastern Pennsylvania at defensive back.

1993: Graduation and Wrestling Championship

In 1993, Sean McDermott graduated from La Salle College High School and was a national prep champion wrestler.

1993: Bills AFC Championship Game Appearance

Three years into Sean McDermott's time with the Buffalo Bills, the Bills made their first AFC Championship Game appearance since 1993.

1995: Bills Clinch Division, Win Playoff Game

Three years into Sean McDermott's time with the Buffalo Bills, in 1995, the Bills clinched their division and won a playoff game for the first time since 1995.

1996: Academic All-Conference Honors

In 1996, Sean McDermott received Academic all-conference honors.

1997: All-Conference Safety

In 1997, Sean McDermott was an all-conference safety while at the College of William and Mary. He also received Academic all-conference honors in 1997.

2005: Dawkins Earns Pro Bowl Berth

Following the 2005 season, Brian Dawkins, under Sean McDermott's watch, earned a Pro Bowl berth.

2006: Dawkins Earns Pro Bowl Berth

Following the 2006 season, Brian Dawkins, under Sean McDermott's watch, earned a Pro Bowl berth.

2015: Runner Up for Defensive Coordinator of the Year

In 2015, Sean McDermott was Pro Football Focus's second runner up to their Defensive Coordinator of the Year award.

September 10, 2017: First Win as Bills Coach

On September 10, 2017, Sean McDermott won his NFL head coaching debut with the Bills in a 21-12 victory over the New York Jets.

2019: Nominated for NFL Head Coach of the Year

In 2019, Sean McDermott was nominated for NFL Head Coach of the Year after leading the Bills to a 10-6 record.

2020: Many instances of growth and success for McDermott and the Bills.

The 2020 season was marked by growth and success for Sean McDermott and the Buffalo Bills as Josh Allen developed dramatically and the Bills won their first AFC East Division Title since 1995 and tied a franchise record for wins previously set in 1990 and 1991.