Bills' Sean McDermott Names Defensive Play-Caller

The Buffalo Bills have finalized a key decision for their season, as head coach Sean McDermott confirmed that Bobby Babich will call the defensive plays. Babich, who has been with the Bills since 2017, steps into the spotlight as he takes on play-calling duties in his first year as defensive coordinator, beginning with the season opener against the Arizona Cardinals on September 8.

This announcement, first reported by Ryan O’Halloran of The Buffalo News, comes after months of speculation. McDermott promoted Babich to the role of defensive coordinator in January, recognizing his value and experience within the organization. However, McDermott was initially hesitant to commit to Babich calling plays, expressing caution throughout the offseason. During training camp and preseason games, Babich was frequently given the opportunity to call plays, indicating McDermott’s trust in his abilities.

“What I like about Bobby is our experience together and the wisdom he has, both as a secondary coach and a linebacker coach,” McDermott said to O’Halloran. “He’s a growth-minded individual and coach, and that’s the right approach.”

Babich has been a part of McDermott's coaching staff since the head coach arrived in Buffalo, starting as an assistant defensive backs coach before moving to safeties coach in 2018 and then linebackers coach from 2022 to 2023. Known for his detail-oriented style and player development skills, Babich earned this promotion after proving his capabilities in various roles.

Babich’s first opportunity to showcase his play-calling will come against the Cardinals, where his strategic approach will be under scrutiny. McDermott acknowledges that the responsibility is immense, noting, "Calling plays is one of the hardest things in this business... there are going to be some calls he will want back, but you have to start somewhere."

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The Bills are banking on Babich's experience and growth mindset to maintain their defensive strength in 2024. As the season approaches, all eyes will be on how Babich manages the pressure and the decisions that will define Buffalo’s defensive strategy.