Former AFC East head coach visits Rams camp
Sean McDermott spent part of this year's training camp on the West Coast, taking in practice with Sean McVay and the Los Angeles Rams. While it is common for NFL coaches to visit other organizations during the offseason or training camp, the opportunity still provides valuable insight into different coaching philosophies, practice structures, and team-building strategies.
Former Bills head coach Sean McDermott is visiting today with the Los Angeles Rams. McDermott is using his off time to see how a few teams such as the Rams operate. pic.twitter.com/uWajqQuYIv
- Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) July 31, 2026
McDermott built the Buffalo Bills into one of the AFC's perennial contenders in a 9 year span but was let go after the 2025 season. For the Rams, welcoming an accomplished head coach such as McDermott creates an environment where ideas can be exchanged between two minds that have consistently competed at a high level over the past decade.
McVay's practices have long been praised for their organization, tempo, and efficiency. Every drill is designed with a specific purpose, and the Rams have become known for maximizing every minute of practice time. Watching those sessions firsthand gives visiting coaches a chance to evaluate new methods they may be able to incorporate into their own training camps.
Those discussions can prove just as valuable as anything that happens on the field.
McVay and McDermott have coached against one another several times and have developed mutual respect throughout their careers.
Both entered head coaching positions in 2017 and quickly transformed their respective franchises into annual playoff contenders. While their coaching styles differ, each has established a winning culture centered around accountability and player development.
McVay is widely recognized for his offensive creativity and adaptability, while McDermott has earned praise for building fundamentally sound defenses and strong locker-room leadership. Their willingness to share ideas illustrates one of the unique aspects of the NFL coaching community: competition on Sundays does not prevent collaboration throughout the offseason.
The league's best coaches are often lifelong learners, constantly searching for ways to improve every aspect of their organizations.
Sean McDermott's visit to Rams training camp naturally raises an intriguing question: could he eventually join Sean McVay's coaching staff? While there is no indication that such a move is being discussed, McDermott would immediately become one of the NFL's most accomplished assistant coaching candidates if he chose to return in that role. His defensive background, experience leading a playoff-caliber organization, and reputation for building disciplined teams would complement McVay's offensive expertise. The Rams have a history of surrounding McVay with experienced football minds, making Los Angeles a logical destination if McDermott ever wanted to spend a season as a defensive coordinator or senior defensive assistant before pursuing another head coaching opportunity. Although his long-term goal is widely expected to be another head coaching position, the chance to collaborate with one of the league's brightest offensive coaches could benefit both McDermott and the Rams.