The NFL coaching carousel is spinning wildly this offseason, with the New York Giants and Buffalo Bills making major moves.
Buffalo’s decision to part ways with Sean McDermott left fans shocked, while the G-Men locked in John Harbaugh. South Shore Press Sports Director Tom Barton joined reporter Stefan Mychajliw to break down the moves and what they mean.
Stefan Mychajliw: Tom, do you see any chance John Harbaugh leaves the Giants for Buffalo?
Tom Barton: Honestly, no. Buffalo is an attractive job. But you’re working with a quarterback set in his ways and a defense that needs rebuilding. The Giants, by contrast, have a stable organization, a strong young core, and a top defensive line. Harbaugh is a Giant, New York fans don’t need to worry.
Stefan Mychajliw: Bills Mafia is freaking out about McDermott. Do you see any parallels to firing a coach like Tony Dungy?
Tom Barton: That's a rosy view. Look at the Bears firing Lovie Smith after multiple 10-win seasons. They hadn't returned to the playoffs until decades later. McDermott’s firing makes sense in some ways, given defensive struggles and drafting issues. But the key question is who replaces him. It could be Brian Daboll.
Stefan Mychajliw: Shouldn’t there have been a clear plan in place?
Tom Barton: Ideally, yes. But this is an unprecedented coaching cycle. Nine openings across the league. There’s no obvious surefire replacement. Buffalo likely knew this going in. They aren’t scrambling, they’re preparing, but it’s going to be fascinating to see who steps in.
The Bills’ next move could define their immediate future, while the Giants continue to offer stability in a season of NFL upheaval.
To watch the entire interview with Tom and Stefan, visit SouthShorePress.com and the Video Vault section on the right hand side of the website.