Sports
2026 Kentucky Derby horses, odds, predictions, posts: Expert who called 12 Derby-Oaks Doubles gives picks
CBS Sports Headlines
NFL
NFL Execs Cast Doubt on Buffalo Bills, Question 2026 NFL Draft Approach
TL;DR
NFL executives doubt the Buffalo Bills' future as Super Bowl contenders, suggesting their competitive window has closed despite a weaker AFC. The team recently parted ways with head coach Sean McDermott after seven seasons of double-digit wins.
Key points
- Buffalo Bills parted ways with head coach Sean McDermott
- Expectations for the Bills have not been met
- Some NFL executives believe the Bills' Super Bowl window has closed
- The AFC is perceived to be weaker currently
- Implications for the 2026 NFL Draft are uncertain
Mentioned in this story
Sean McDermott
Buffalo BillsNew England Patriots
The Buffalo Bills parted ways with head coach Sean McDermott this offseason after seven consecutive seasons with double-digit wins. While expectations clearly havenât been met for the organization, it appears some in the league believe things wonât get better anytime soon.
Speaking to Mike Sando of The Athletic, one NFL executive shared his belief that the Billsâ window as Super Bowl contenders in the AFC has closed. Thatâs even with regression expected from the New England Patriots and the AFC seemingly being âdownâ right now.
âI think Buffaloâs window has closed.â
Anonymous NFL executive on the Buffalo Bills entering the 2026 season
Related: 2026 NFL Power Rankings, See Where Bills Land
In 2025, Buffalo finished tied for the fourth-most wins in the AFC and then made it all the way to the Divisional Round only to lose in overtime. That prompted the firing of head coach Sean McDermott, with general manager Brandon Beane promoted to president of football operations and offensive coordinator Joe Brady named head coach.
The Bills front office responded to that disappointment in 2025 by adding safety Geno Stone, nickel C.J. Gardner-Johnson and edge rusher Bradley Chubb to strengthen the defense. Just as important, Buffalo traded for wide receiver to provide Allen with an impact offensive weapon.
Q&A
Why do NFL executives believe the Buffalo Bills' Super Bowl window has closed?
NFL executives feel the Bills' competitive window has closed due to unmet expectations and a perceived decline in their performance.
What changes did the Buffalo Bills make to their coaching staff recently?
The Buffalo Bills parted ways with head coach Sean McDermott after seven consecutive seasons with double-digit wins.
How does the current state of the AFC affect the Buffalo Bills' prospects?
Despite a weaker AFC, executives believe the Bills are unlikely to improve, indicating a significant shift in their competitive status.
What are the implications for the Buffalo Bills in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The Bills' uncertain future and the doubts expressed by NFL executives may influence their strategy and decisions in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft.
