In the competitive world of the NFL, finding a franchise quarterback is akin to striking gold. For Buffalo Bills Head Coach Sean McDermott, that moment of discovery came in 2017 when he first laid eyes on a young quarterback named Josh Allen. As McDermott recalls, Allen’s raw talent and remarkable arm strength were immediately evident, setting the stage for a transformative journey that would lead the Bills to new heights.
The 2017 Revelation
It was the 2017 NFL Draft process, and teams across the league were scouring college tapes, attending pro days, and conducting interviews in search of the next big star. Josh Allen, a relatively unknown prospect from the University of Wyoming, was on the radar but not yet considered a surefire top pick. However, all that changed when McDermott and his scouting team attended one of Allen’s workouts.
McDermott’s First Impressions
In a recent interview, McDermott shared his vivid recollections of that pivotal moment. “You saw the arm strength,” McDermott began, his eyes lighting up with the memory. “It was clear from the first few throws that Josh had something special. The way he could launch the ball with such velocity and precision was unlike anything we had seen in a long time.”
The Decision-Making Process
McDermott and the Bills’ front office faced a critical decision. Selecting a quarterback high in the draft is always a gamble, but Allen’s potential was too tantalizing to ignore. Despite some concerns about his accuracy and competition level at Wyoming, the Bills saw a diamond in the rough.
“We knew there were risks,” McDermott acknowledged. “But we also knew that with the right coaching and support, Josh could develop into a game-changer. His physical attributes were off the charts, and his work ethic and character were equally impressive.”
The Draft Day Gamble
On April 26, 2018, the Buffalo Bills made their move. With the seventh overall pick in the 2018 NFL Draft, they selected Josh Allen. The decision was met with mixed reactions from fans and analysts. Some praised the bold choice, while others questioned whether Allen could transition successfully to the NFL.
Early Challenges and Growth
Allen’s rookie season was a learning experience, both for him and the Bills. There were flashes of brilliance, but also moments of inconsistency. McDermott and his coaching staff remained steadfast in their belief in Allen’s potential, focusing on refining his mechanics and decision-making.
“Josh’s growth has been incredible to watch,” McDermott said. “From day one, he embraced the challenges and never stopped working to improve. His resilience and determination have been key to his development.”
The Payoff
Fast forward to the present, and Josh Allen has silenced the doubters. He has become one of the premier quarterbacks in the NFL, leading the Bills to multiple playoff appearances and establishing himself as a leader both on and off the field. His powerful arm, combined with improved accuracy and decision-making, has made him a nightmare for opposing defenses.
McDermott’s Reflection
Looking back, McDermott feels a deep sense of satisfaction and pride. “It’s been an incredible journey,” he reflected. “Seeing Josh grow into the player and leader he is today has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career. It’s a testament to his talent, hard work, and the support of everyone in the Bills organization.”
Conclusion
The story of how Josh Allen caught Sean McDermott’s eye in 2017 is a testament to the power of vision and belief in the potential of a player. What began as a gamble on a strong-armed prospect from a small school has blossomed into a franchise-altering success for the Buffalo Bills. As Allen continues to evolve and lead, the decision made back in 2017 stands as a defining moment in the team’s pursuit of greatness.
