Buffalo Bills head coach Sean McDermott expressed regret on Thursday for mentioning the 9/11 hijackers in a team meeting four years ago. During that meeting, he referenced their coordination to highlight the significance of communication. Realizing the potential misinterpretation of his message, McDermott held a follow-up meeting an hour later to apologize to the players. He reiterated his apology during a press conference after an article by NFL writer Tyler Dunne brought attention to his past comments made during training camp in 2019.
“9/11 was a horrific event in our country’s history and personally affected me, as I lost a close family friend,” McDermott stated in a heartfelt address to the media. He acknowledged that he did not communicate his point effectively back then and aimed to clarify his intentions with his current team. “It’s crucial for everyone to understand how important this is to me and my family,” he added, visibly emotional as he tapped the podium and carefully chose his words.
The article noted that McDermott had referred to the hijackers as a group that effectively coordinated their attacks. On September 11, 2001, nearly 3,000 people lost their lives when hijacked planes targeted the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and a field in Pennsylvania, marking the deadliest terrorist attack on U.S. soil.
McDermott, now in his seventh season with the Bills, is credited with turning the team into a playoff contender. However, this season, the Bills are facing scrutiny for their performance and currently sit outside playoff contention. McDermott’s recent apology comes amid other challenges, including star pass rusher Von Miller facing felony domestic violence charges.
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