What happened: Buffalo included Allen in its head-coaching interviews before choosing a coach close to its quarterback. Allen participated in the process but said he did not make the final decision.
Why it matters: The quarterback's role in the search adds scrutiny to Brady's first season and Allen's lingering blame over McDermott's firing. The change follows eight playoff appearances under McDermott without a Super Bowl berth.
By the numbers: McDermott finished 98-50 in the regular season and 8-8 in the playoffs over nine years. Buffalo went 12-5 in 2025 before a 33-30 overtime loss in the divisional round.
What to watch: Brady's preseason operation and Allen's adjustment will be the next tests before the 2026 regular season.